The Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) yesterday hosted a hybrid seminar at the University of the South Pacific, Rarotonga campus, bringing together eight international experts from the United States, Denmark, New Zealand, Australia, and China to discuss the latest advances in understanding seabed sediment plumes—clouds of particles that may be generated during seabed minerals extraction. Around 35 participants joined in person and online.
Read MoreYou can read all the latest news and updates on the Cook Islands seabed minerals sector here.
The Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs Beverly Stacey-Ataera as the new Seabed Minerals Commissioner, marking an important chapter in the nation’s ongoing stewardship of its vast ocean resources.
Read MoreThe Seabed Minerals Authority and National Environment Service hosted a Regional Environmental Management Plan workshop that highlighted strong support for the nation’s science-based, precautionary approach to managing seabed minerals within Marae Moana.
Read MoreA children's book exploring the idea of deep sea nodules was paid for by a charity established and funded by a Cook Islands seabed mining company. By RNZ Pacific journalist, Caleb Fotheringham.
Read MoreThe Cook Islands continues to demonstrate leadership in global seabed minerals governance, with Acting Seabed Minerals Commissioner Beverly Stacey-Ataera participating in the 30th Session – Part II of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) Council, held from 7 to 18 July 2025.
Read MoreThe Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA), which governs seabed mineral activities under the Seabed Minerals Act 2019 (SBMA Act), emphasises that no commercial extraction can occur without extensive approvals.
Read MoreThe Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) 2025-2030 signed between the Cook Islands and China has ‘nothing to do with military or security agenda’, says the Chinese ambassador to New Zealand, Cook Islands and Niue.
Read MoreThe United States is looking to build stronger ties with the Cook Islands following a historic diplomatic visit this week by its Chargé d’Affaires, David Gehrenbeck, who met with Prime Minister Mark Brown during the nation’s 60th anniversary of self-governance.
Read MoreAs the Cook Islands approaches the end of its five-year seabed minerals exploration phase and the latest partnership with the superpowers United States and China, the question facing its people is no longer just about mining—but about identity, sovereignty, stewardship, and the ocean that binds them all.
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