It’s been a big month for Auckland Police, and Coasties will be interested to hear one of the suburbs hit was right on our doorstep in Torbay.

In a sweeping series of operations, Police destroyed more than 10 tonnes of cannabis, worth over $58 million on the street.

That meant four truckloads a week were needed just to cart away cannabis from the Waitematā district alone.

Across Auckland, 120 rental homes were found to be secretly converted into cannabis grow houses, including addresses in Pakuranga, Henderson, Pōkeno and Torbay.

Police say these setups are often rigged with dangerous, stolen wiring, which not only fuels the operation but also creates serious fire risks.

Detective Inspector Callum McNeill says the raids have delivered a heavy financial blow to organised crime.

In total, 128 addresses were searched, more than 11,000 plants destroyed, and 30 arrests made—many linked to Vietnamese criminal groups.

Photos: Supplied.

For landlords, there’s a clear warning.

Insurance may not pay out if you haven’t done your homework on tenants.

Police are urging property owners to:

1. Meet tenants face-to-face and check ID
2. Run reference, credit and income checks
3. Carry out regular inspections

Neighbours are asked to stay alert too.

If you notice unusual power use, covered-up windows, or tenants pushing to avoid inspections, it might be worth a quiet call to 105 or Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

It’s a reminder that even an average-looking rental down the street can hide serious risks.

Together, Coasties can help keep our communities safe.

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