seabed mapping

research priority 1

Comprehensive mapping of the seafloor to better understand our marine geology, habitats, and mineral resource distribution.

SBMA is committed to building a detailed map of the Cook Islands seabed, because good decisions start with knowing what’s beneath us.

We’ve been compiling multibeam echo sounder (MBES) data from historical research cruises, along with recent data collected through licenced exploration activities and marine scientific research under SBMA’s Research Permit for Small Environmental Programmes (rpSEP).

We’re also working with Earth Sciences NZ (previously known as NIWA) to turn this into a single, accurate seabed grid - CI National Bathymetry Grid.

This work supports:

• Better marine planning and environmental protection

• More informed decisions around seabed minerals management

• Our national contribution to the global GEBCO Seabed 2030 (30x30) initiative

Special thanks to Moana Minerals, CIC, Kiva Marine, and NIWA for their ongoing support and collaboration in this important work.

Cook Islands National Bathymetry Grid

In 2025, SBMA released the first Cook Islands National Bathymetry Grid, a new national product that compiles historical and newly collected bathymetry data into a single seamless depth model covering the Cook Islands maritime zone.

SBMA plans to release updated versions of this grid annually, or as new data is incorporated. The 2025 Grid can be downloaded from our CSD.

Island Bathymetry Grids and Maps

Alongside the national grid, SBMA is progressively producing island-scale bathymetry grids and maps.

Aitutaki is among the first islands to have its own map product, with additional islands to follow as data becomes available.