Firearms and explosives found during raids in Wairoa

Police have recovered explosives, sawn-off firearms and a methamphetamine lab during a series of raids in Wairoa.

Sergeant Chris Flood said over 20 search warrants were executed during the northern Hawke's Bay operation, in which 12 people had so far been arrested.

Arrest warrants were also executed for outstanding fines from offenders found with large amounts of cash.

Mr Flood said police were taking a hard line approach to firearms use in the community and the operation and arrests were a direct result of information gained by police and the public.

"This type of enforcement action is just the beginning of decent people in the community working with police to make Wairoa an even better place to live," he said.

Those arrested face a range of drug and firearms charges.

- NZPA