In a significant move to combat drug trafficking, international cooperation has prevented 1.6 tonnes of drugs from reaching New Zealand this year.

Marking the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Customs highlighted the critical role of overseas partners in these efforts.

Customs Acting Deputy Chief Executive Paul Campbell praised the global cooperation network for its invaluable contribution to intercepting drugs before they crossed New Zealand's borders.

"Our partnerships with international agencies are crucial in stopping these drugs," Campbell said.

From January to May 2024, foreign border and enforcement agencies reported seizing over 1.6 tonnes of drugs, potentially averting NZ$1.7 billion in harm.

This included 1.2 tonnes of methamphetamine, 210 kilograms of cocaine, and 92 kilograms of MDMA.

Since the implementation of the offshore disruption strategy in 2018, a total of 7.8 tonnes of illicit drugs have been intercepted abroad, preventing more than NZ$7.5 billion in harm to New Zealand.

Campbell emphasised the importance of early intervention.

"Seizing drugs before they leave overseas ports and airports is a key part of our strategy," he noted. "Our goal is to reduce the influence of these criminal groups on New Zealand."