Customs has arrested three alleged drug couriers at Auckland International Airport in two separate incidents this week, seizing an estimated 27 kilograms of methamphetamine worth NZ$10.23 million.

The two cases are not believed to be related.

In the first incident, two men, aged 33 and 39, arrived in Auckland on Wednesday, 1 January 2025, on a flight originating from Toronto, Canada.

Following questioning and a search of their luggage, Customs officers found approximately 20.44 kilograms of methamphetamine hidden in the 33-year-old’s checked-in suitcase.

The bag tag on this suitcase linked it to the 39-year-old man.

Both men were scheduled to appear in Manukau District Court on Friday, 3 January 2025, charged with the importation of a Class A controlled drug.

The 33-year-old man also faces charges of possession for supply of a Class A controlled drug.

This seizure is estimated to have a potential street value of NZ$7.66 million, preventing harm estimated at NZ$21.42 million to New Zealand communities and the economy.

In the second case, Customs officers arrested a 59-year-old woman last night, Thursday, 2 January 2025, after her arrival in Auckland on a flight from Honolulu, USA.

During a search of her baggage, officers discovered clothing that felt unusually stiff.

Border testing confirmed the presence of methamphetamine soaked into the fabric, weighing approximately 6.87 kilograms.

The woman is also set to appear in Manukau District Court on Friday, facing charges of importation and possession for supply of a Class A controlled drug.

The estimated street value of the methamphetamine seized in this incident is NZ$2.57 million, preventing an additional NZ$7.2 million worth of harm.

Paul Williams, Customs Manager at Auckland Airport, praised the efforts of frontline officers and intelligence experts who worked throughout the holiday season to identify and intercept potential drug couriers.

“Day three into the new year and Customs has already stopped approximately NZ$10.2 million worth of methamphetamine from causing harm in our communities,” said Williams. “This is a result of the hard work of our frontline officers, supported by intelligence and targeting experts.”

Williams also urged travellers to remain vigilant.

“Keep your eyes out for suspicious activity, and if you notice anything unusual, report it to a Customs officer,” he said.

Anyone with suspicions about potential drug smuggling can contact Customs confidentially on 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

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