SBMA continues Rarotonga community kōrero across Titikaveka, Avatiu and Ngatangiia
The Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) has continued its Rarotonga community kōrero sessions across Titikaveka, Avatiu, and Ngatangiia, building on earlier sessions held in other parts of the island and creating further space for open discussion, shared learning, and direct engagement with communities on the Cook Islands seabed minerals sector.
Titikaveka Community Korero Sessions
Held as part of SBMA’s wider community engagement programme, the sessions brought together residents, community leaders, and families to hear updates on where the Cook Islands currently sits in the seabed minerals space and to better understand what work actually is being done and means for our people and our moana.
Like previous Rarotonga public update meetings, SBMA shared information on the Cook Islands’ current exploration and research phase, how scientific work is carried out to better understand the deep ocean, and the legal and regulatory frameworks that guide the sector. The kōrero also reinforced two important points: the Cook Islands remain in an exploration-only phase, and no minerals harvesting is permitted.
A key part of each evening was the open kōrero that followed the presentations.
Community members were well prepared, asked in-depth questions, shared their very strong views, and raised important points for discussion. There was clear interest across all three sessions in understanding what is known, what is still being studied, and how science, law, and public engagement come together to support national decision-making.
The one clear viewpoint was the appreciation shown by all participants for this unique opportunity to engage with SBMA at a community level in a direct and respectful manner.
Partnerships and Corporation Director Edward Herman said the sessions remain an important part of ensuring communities can hear directly from the Authority, ask questions openly, and stay informed on where the Cook Islands currently stands.
“These kōrero are about sharing information clearly and making space for our people to understand what is happening in our ocean. It is important that our communities can ask questions, hear directly from us, and take part in the wider conversation.”
For SBMA, the Rarotonga sessions are not only about providing updates. They are also about listening carefully, responding openly, and recognising that communities want clear and accessible information on an issue that is both complex and important.
SBMA thanked the people of Titikaveka, Avatiu, and Ngatangiia for their warm welcome, thoughtful questions, and willingness to take part in the discussions.