Customs officers have seized an estimated 67.8 kilograms of methamphetamine and 1.1 kilograms of cocaine worth a combined estimated street value of up to NZ$25.81 million.

The drugs were seized in two separate interceptions at Auckland International Airport overnight (Thursday 29 May 2025).

In the first case, two unaccompanied duffel bags off a flight from Malaysia raised Customs officers’ suspicions. Further inspection of the bags revealed they contained 50 kilograms of methamphetamine.

In the second case, an estimated 17. 8 kilograms of methamphetamine and 1.1 kilograms of cocaine were located in a passenger’s duffel bag off a flight from New York.

In relation to that second case, a 22-year-old man faces charges of importing Class A controlled drugs.

“Both these seizures were the result of the excellent skills of our frontline officers who recognised tell-tale signs that prompted further investigations and turned up these significant quantities of illegal drugs,” says Customs’ Acting Manager Auckland Airport Donnelle Nicholson.

“Already this year, Customs has stopped around half a tonne of illicit drugs from entering New Zealand through Auckland International Airport – this volume is both significant and concerning.

“Customs officers are relentless in their drive and commitment to protect our border and people from harm. They take a great deal of pride when they achieve successes like these overnight.”

Suspicions about drug smuggling can be reported by calling 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) in confidence, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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