sbma INTERNSHIPS

Keen to dive into a career in seabed minerals? Our internship programme gives students a unique chance to work alongside each of our teams, gaining real-world experience and a behind-the-scenes look at how the sector operates.

The Authority prioritises the employment and training of Cook Islanders. This will help to empower our people, build our capability and most importantly retain long-term human resource capacity in the Cook Islands. To date, we have already benefited from capacity development programmes in this sector at national, regional and international levels.

Going forward it will be a requirement for industry to offer capacity building opportunities to Cook Islanders.

The purpose of this internship is to support the work of the Authority, introduce interns to potential career paths in this sector and provide them with valuable work experience in the industry.

Internship Programme

The programme is open to students and young professionals specialising in fields relevant to the work of SBMA.

All applicants must at the time of application meet one of the following requirements:

• Be enrolled in a tertiary or secondary school programme

• Be enrolled in a graduate school programme (second university degree or equivalent, or higher)

• Have a good command of English and/or Cook Islands Maori; and

• Have an interest in seabed minerals, law of the sea, international environmental law, marine science or international institutions and organisations.

“My internship at SBMA was an eye-opening and empowering experience. I had the chance to work across several teams, contributing to meaningful projects while learning about the seabed minerals sector and its role in our country’s development.

The supportive environment helped me build skills in research, communication, and critical thinking—tools I’ll carry with me as I pursue a career combining business and psychology. I’m proud to have been part of a team that values culture, sustainability, and impact.

Thank you, SBMA, for the opportunity and guidance!”

— Kaylee Tepaeru Herman, 2025 Intern

“My internship at SBMA was my first professional experience, and it has helped me grow in so many ways. I gained confidence in communication, teamwork, and time management, while learning more about the important work happening in our seabed minerals sector.

As someone passionate about Cook Islands Māori language, sport, and leadership, this opportunity has encouraged me to keep exploring my strengths and future possibilities. I’m truly grateful to the SBMA team for supporting my learning and development.”

— Tearoa Rouru, 2024 Intern

“My internship at SBMA has been such a valuable first step into the professional world. I’ve gained confidence, improved my communication skills, and learned more about the seabed minerals sector and how it connects to our islands’ future.

This experience has inspired me to keep chasing my goals—whether it’s becoming an engineer, excelling in sports, or exploring the world. I’m grateful to SBMA for giving me this opportunity to grow, learn, and be part of something meaningful.”

— Kimberly Lucky Uini, 2024 Intern

“Interning at SBMA has been more beneficial than I could have imagined. I’ve gained hands-on experience, explored international perspectives on seabed minerals, and developed a deeper understanding of the marine world.

Working alongside such knowledgeable and supportive staff has inspired me to pursue marine science and given me the confidence to follow my passion for the ocean. I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity—it’s opened my eyes to a whole new world of possibilities.”

— Jean Wragg, 2023 Intern

“My internship at SBMA was a great opportunity to learn more about the seabed minerals sector and how it connects to our islands. I really enjoyed seeing rare footage of our Cook Islands nodules, meeting new people, and learning how SBMA works with other organisations.

This experience has deepened my interest in combining traditional knowledge with sustainable development. I’m grateful to have had this chance and look forward to using what I’ve learned to help our people and environment in the future.”

— Aaron Punua, 2023 Intern

“My internship at SBMA gave me a unique chance to explore the technical side of ocean science. From researching ROVs and sampling systems to sailing on the Anuanua Moana, I gained real-world insights that supported my passion for engineering and deepened my understanding of seabed exploration.

The experience challenged me in the best way—especially learning technical language—and I truly valued working alongside such knowledgeable and supportive professionals. SBMA helped shape my path, and I’m excited to take what I’ve learned into my future studies in engineering.”

— Tamyra Bullen, 2022 Intern

“My internship at SBMA gave me valuable insight into marine geophysics and how different techniques can help us understand the seafloor safely. Preparing a presentation on these methods was challenging but incredibly rewarding.

This experience has sparked my interest in the connection between business, science, and psychology, and I’m excited to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce and Science in the future. I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow during my time at SBMA.”

— Tuira, SBMA Intern

“My internship at SBMA allowed me to dive into the world of marine science, exploring fascinating topics like deep sea currents and marine biology. Working on my project about the Antarctic Bottom Water current and its impact on cobalt nodules was both challenging and rewarding.

I loved collaborating with scientists from around the world during a virtual workshop and gaining hands-on experience in maritime survival training. My time at SBMA has shaped my future ambitions, and I’m excited to continue my studies in marine science and English. This internship has taught me the value of focus, productivity, and continuous learning."

— Inano Harmon, 2022 Intern

“My internship at SBMA allowed me to explore the fascinating world of marine life, especially around polymetallic nodule fields. Preparing and presenting my findings was challenging but rewarding, and I enjoyed gaining insights into how SBMA views this emerging industry.

This experience has strengthened my passion for environmental science, and I’m excited to pursue a double Bachelor of Civil Environmental Engineering and Science. I look forward to using the knowledge I’ve gained to contribute to my home environment.”

— Athina Karika, 2022 Intern

“My journey with the SBMA started back in 2013 when I first learned about the potential of the seabed minerals sector. It sparked my interest in marine biology, and since then, I’ve been dedicated to pursuing this path.

Interning with SBMA in 2021 gave me valuable hands-on experience across various divisions, from Finance and Administration to Communications. It’s been an incredible opportunity to gain insight into the SBM sector's development and its potential benefits for our community. I'm excited for the future of this field and look forward to gaining in-field experience in benthic biology.”

— Seth Solomona, 2021 Intern

“My internship with the SBMA in 2021 was a great opportunity to learn about how seabed nodules are formed and the collaboration with various organizations. It was a rewarding experience, and I especially enjoyed meeting new people during the school holidays.

I’m eager to further my education, whether in the Cook Islands or abroad, and am inspired by my family, particularly my grandmothers. While I found data projects challenging, they were an excellent learning opportunity. If I don’t end up in the seabed minerals sector, I’d like to pursue a career as an Automotive Technician or Fisherman.”

— Nauma Marsters, 2021 Intern