You can read all the latest news and updates on the Cook Islands seabed minerals sector here.
The Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) has contributed to a joint deep-sea biodiversity research project with the Second Institute of Oceanography (SIO), supporting work to strengthen scientific knowledge of deep-sea habitats and biodiversity data.
SBMA participated in the Synthesis and Analysis of Biodiversity Data in Deep-Sea Habitats of the Northwest Pacific project, known as SADiNP, a collaboration with the Second Institute of Oceanography.
Read MoreThe Government of the Cook Islands formally welcomed NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer to Rarotonga following the completion of the 2026 Cook Islands ROV Exploration, which brought new scientific information, imagery, maps, and observations from deep waters within the Cook Islands Exclusive Economic Zone.
Read MoreThe Seabed Minerals Authority recognises the public interest in recent comments about the proposed AOMC–Odyssey transaction and what it may mean for seabed minerals exploration in the Cook Islands.
The questions raised highlight why the Cook Islands has established a regulatory framework to oversee seabed minerals activities and protect the interests of Cook Islanders.
Read MoreThe Cook Islands continued its engagement in international ocean governance at the International Seabed Authority Assembly in Kingston, Jamaica, from 27 to 31 July 2026.
Seabed Minerals Commissioner Beverly Ataera attended the Assembly as part of the Cook Islands delegation, with support and coordination across Government, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration.
Read MoreThe Seabed Minerals Authority’s Knowledge Management team is preparing to take part in the 2026 Cook Islands ROV Exploration aboard NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer, a 26-day scientific cruise taking place from 19 July to 13 August 2026 in deep waters off the Cook Islands.
Read MoreThe Cook Islands Government has completed the transition of the Marae Moana Coordination Office (MMCO) from the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) to Te Tu’anga Taporoporo National Environment Service (NES), following the passage of the Marae Moana Amendment Act 2026 earlier this year.
Read MorePublic discussion on seabed minerals has raised questions about transparency, representation, science, and decision-making. Here is where the Cook Islands currently stands, what the law requires, and why the country remains in an exploration-only phase. Those questions are fair. People should expect answers that are clear, straight, and respectful.
Read MoreThe Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) continues to strengthen its science-based approach through international collaboration, with Knowledge Management Director Dr John Parianos recently attending a series of engagements in Washington, DC.
Read MoreThe Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) recently completed korero outreach to the Northern Group, revisiting the islands of Tongareva, Manihiki, Rakahanga and Pukapuka as part of its ongoing commitment to community dialogue, public awareness, and relationship-building across the Cook Islands.
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