A significant seizure of methamphetamine was made by Customs at Auckland International Airport over the weekend, with an estimated 28.5 kilograms of the drug found in two abandoned duffle bags.

The seizure, which has an estimated street value of up to NZ$10.7 million, comes just days after the release of the National Drugs in Wastewater Testing Programme results, which showed a doubling of methamphetamine consumption in the third quarter of 2024.

Customs officers conducting routine checks in the arrivals area noticed two bags that appeared to have been abandoned.

X-rays showed some inconsistencies, and a positive indication by a drug detector dog led to the discovery.

On examination, Customs officers located a total of 14 methamphetamine packages in both bags, wrapped in four layers of packaging.

This amount of methamphetamine would have caused up to NZ$29.9 million of social harm and cost to New Zealanders.

Customs Manager Auckland Airport, Paul Williams, credited the seizure to the vigilance and determination of frontline Customs officers.

"This seizure has stopped a significant quantity of harmful drugs from getting into our communities, and will no doubt leave the criminals involved out of pocket for the Christmas season."

Mr. Williams added that Customs is accustomed to the tactics used by organised crime syndicates during the busy travel season.

"Our officers are always on high alert, and we encourage everyone to play a role in protecting New Zealand's border and communities from illicit drugs."

If you have any information or concerns about suspicious activity, you can raise it with a Customs officer at the airport or call 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) in confidence or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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