Two arrested after methamphetamine worth $17 million found Tauranga Port

“Currently in New Zealand the best way to make money is to sell Methamphetamine.” Fighting the Demon explores the business of meth.

Two Fijian nationals have been arrested after $17 million of methamphetamine was found on a boat that arrived in Tauranga.

The arrested men, both in their 30s, appeared in the Tauranga District Court on Wednesday afternoon.

They face charges for the importation and possession of a class A controlled drug, which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

Drugs seized from the vessel. Photo / New Zealand Customs Service

The 34kg of methamphetamine seized is worth up to $17 million.

The vessel arrived in Tauranga from Fiji on November 18 and a subsequent search by Customs located the methamphetamine hidden in bags in various locations on board.

A large sum of money found on board has also been seized by Customs.

Customs investigations manager Bruce Berry said the seizure was a reminder that Customs was active in seaports across the country.

Drugs seized from the vessel. Photo / New Zealand Customs Service

"This vessel was identified as posing a potential risk before it arrived in New Zealand, and the seizure is the result of some very good work by Customs frontline officers in Tauranga - one of the main shipping hubs into New Zealand."

He said Customs maintain a presence at regional ports to defeat and deter smuggling activities.