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 NIWA to turn this into a single, accurate seabed grid — and once complete, it will be publicly available for everyone to use.

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.

Map of mbes captured via SBMA umbrella permit