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Trust Loses Auckland Market Licence Following ‘Very Disappointed’ Ruling

by Rachel Morgan News Editor June 25, 2026
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

The Māngere Markets Trust lost its licence to operate the Māngere Town Centre market on May 30 after 29 years of service, following a competitive selection process by the Auckland Council. The council awarded a new five-year contract to the Twosevenfive Foundation, which now operates as 275 Markets, after determining the foundation better met assessment criteria for the site.

Why did the council change operators?

Auckland Council states the decision to replace the long-standing operator followed a formal expression of interest process for the site. According to Marian Webb, the council’s Head of Property Management, the previous licence had been operating on a rolling month-to-month basis, which provided an opportunity to review the future of the location. The council conducted two rounds of applications in 2025, which drew eight total bids. Webb noted that the final decision reflected a long-term governance direction developed over several years and multiple local board terms. The council assessed applicants based on community benefits, including support for local businesses, affordable stallholder opportunities, Māori and Pasifika connections, and the requirement that profits be returned to the community.

How does the former operator respond?

The Māngere Markets Trust, which established the market nearly three decades ago, expressed surprise and disappointment at the decision. A spokesperson for the trust stated that the organization had reinvested more than $2.35 million into community initiatives during its tenure, including funding for food banks, school programs, and town centre security cameras. The trust reported that it had never received a formal complaint and had consistently met all rental and contractual obligations to the council. While the trust participated in the 2025 tender process, it questioned whether there was a genuine opportunity to retain the licence, citing comments about a “mood for change” at the local board level.

What happens next for the market and community?

The transition to the new operator, 275 Markets, leaves the future of community funding uncertain. The Māngere Markets Trust has publicly questioned how long it might take for the new operator to establish a similar level of investment in local causes. While the council maintains that the selection of the Twosevenfive Foundation was based on superior alignment with its criteria, the Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board has not responded to inquiries regarding the specific reasons for seeking a new operator after 29 years. Stakeholders may watch to see if the new operator maintains the same level of financial support for local schools, sporting groups, and charitable initiatives previously provided by the trust.

June 25, 2026 0 comments
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Business

Failed Weiti Bay Project: Land to be Sold to Recover $67M Debt

by Chief Editor June 25, 2026
written by Chief Editor

The Weiti Bay housing project, a 909-hectare coastal development north of Auckland, remains stalled in a high-stakes legal battle as creditors seek to recover more than $67 million in debt. Following a May Court of Appeal ruling, control of the land is now subject to an expressions-of-interest process managed by administrators, as warring parties contest the site’s future development and financial liability.

How did a major housing development end up in court?

The conflict stems from a partnership between the Liu family’s Green McCahill Holdings Ltd (GMHL) and developer Evan Williams’ Ara Weiti Investments Ltd (AWIL), which began in 2012. According to High Court judgments, the relationship soured when sales at the gated 150-lot community failed to meet projections, leaving loans unpaid. Justice Andrew Becroft noted in a September judgment that the Liu family’s refusal to release land titles—a strategy described as “playing chicken”—effectively halted revenue and jeopardized the project’s solvency.

How did a major housing development end up in court?

What is the current status of the Weiti Bay land?

The land is currently under the control of administrators from Teneo, who took over the sale process in June. This move replaced a previously scheduled High Court-ordered auction. According to John Fisk, a senior managing director at Teneo, the shift to an expressions-of-interest process aims to benefit a broader group of creditors, which reportedly includes seven or eight parties. This follows a period where Williams’ company, AWIL, held a significant advantage, as the court previously allowed it to bid for the land by offsetting its own $67 million-plus debt against the purchase price.

7 Taemai Place, Weiti Bay
Did you know?

The Weiti Bay site spans 909 hectares, making it larger than the Auckland suburbs of Devonport and Bayswater combined. Its proximity to a sensitive marine reserve has previously drawn public protest, including demonstrations outside Te Papa while Evan Williams served as the museum’s chairman.

Why are the financial stakes so high?

The project’s debt has ballooned due to high-interest rates and compounding costs. Justice Sarah Katz reported in May that debt owed to AWIL rose from $20 million in 2020 to over $67 million, growing by more than $1 million each month at a 21% compounding interest rate. These costs have impacted prominent figures, including philanthropist Sir Mark Dunajtschik, whose company, Lambton Quay, lent over $40 million to the project. Sir Mark testified in the High Court that the investment was among the “worst commercial decisions” of his life.

Comparison: The “Playing Chicken” Strategy

Party Stated Strategy Court Finding
Liu Family (GMHL) Refusing to release titles unless paid first. “Effectively tanked the development” (Justice Becroft).
Evan Williams (AWIL) Buying debt to gain leverage. Credible and reliable witness (Justice Becroft).

What happens if the land is sold to a third party?

If an outside buyer secures the land, the development faces potential deadlock. Because the mortgaged parcels are surrounded by property still controlled by the Liu family, any new owner would require the family’s cooperation to access and develop the site. AWIL remains a key player, as its survival depends on either acquiring the land to finish the project or recovering its debt. The Liu family continues to contest the High Court’s rulings through an active appeal in the Court of Appeal.

Comparison: The "Playing Chicken" Strategy
Pro Tip:

When monitoring complex property litigation, look for the distinction between “mortgagee sales” and “voluntary administration.” One prioritizes specific debt recovery, while the other seeks to balance the interests of all creditors, often changing the timeline for potential investors.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who is currently managing the sale of the Weiti Bay land?
    Administrators from Teneo are managing the sale through an expressions-of-interest process.
  • Why did the Liu family refuse to release land titles?
    The family sought to prevent lenders from selling the land cheaply, hoping to force a renegotiation or push the developer out of the project.
  • What is the total debt involved in this dispute?
    As of the May ruling, the debt owed to AWIL alone had exceeded $67 million.
  • Is the project still facing legal challenges?
    Yes, the Liu family has an appeal lodged with the Court of Appeal contesting previous High Court judgments.

Are you following the development of Auckland’s coastal land? Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on this case and other major property sector news.

June 25, 2026 0 comments
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News

6 Alleged Drug Mules Arrested in Malaysia Meth Smuggling Bust

by Rachel Morgan News Editor June 25, 2026
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

New Zealand Customs has charged six people, aged between 22 and 25, with importing approximately 93kg of methamphetamine following a series of raids across Auckland. The arrests are part of Operation Trammel, a wider investigation that has led to 22 arrests and 31 search warrants since January. Customs alleges the group used suitcases to smuggle the Class A drug on return trips from Malaysia.

How social media is being used for recruitment

Transnational organised crime syndicates are increasingly using social media to recruit young New Zealanders as drug couriers, according to Customs Investigations Manager Dominic Adams. These groups reportedly target young people by promising overseas travel, cash, and an “Insta-worthy lifestyle.” Adams described this recruitment tactic as an “active and dangerous development,” noting that criminal entities are exploiting social platforms to entice individuals into high-risk illegal activities.

Why this matters for families

The significance of this trend lies in the long-term consequences for those who accept these offers. Adams warned that young people and their families should be “concerned and aware” that these syndicates are active on social networks. He cautioned that while some offers may seem difficult to resist, they frequently come with “strings attached and lifetime consequences.” The six individuals recently charged have already made their initial appearance in the Manukau District Court.

Why this matters for families

What may happen next in Operation Trammel

As Operation Trammel continues, investigators may conduct further search warrants and additional arrests as they track the networks behind these smuggling attempts. Given that the investigation has already resulted in 22 arrests since January, the scope of the operation suggests authorities are continuing to focus on dismantling the supply chains connecting Malaysia to New Zealand. Members of the public who suspect drug smuggling activity can report information confidentially to 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) or anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

What it's like to be a New Zealand Customs Officer
June 25, 2026 0 comments
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Business

Auckland Transport Moves Forward with Ponsonby Paid Parking Plan

by Chief Editor June 23, 2026
written by Chief Editor

Auckland Transport (AT) will implement new or extended paid parking across 13 side streets in Ponsonby following approval from the Waitematā Local Board. The initiative aims to manage parking demand that has spilled into residential areas since the introduction of paid parking on Ponsonby Road, according to AT group manager for network, planning, and policy, Andrew McGill.

Why is paid parking expanding in Ponsonby?

Auckland Transport argues the changes are a “proven best practice” to regulate high-demand zones, according to Andrew McGill. Data shows that while paid parking on Ponsonby Road improved turnover for shoppers, it forced commuters and visitors to seek free spots on nearby residential side streets. McGill stated that despite the new charges, approximately 75% of on-street parking in the area will remain free, with over 4,000 spaces available for public use.

Did you know?
Auckland Council reports a 63% increase in vacant retail spaces in Ponsonby, rising from 100 in June 2025 to over 160. This trend aligns with a broader national economic contraction where hospitality liquidations have risen 49% and retail liquidations 35% compared to the previous year.

How do local businesses view the changes?

Business owners have voiced strong opposition, citing concerns that increased costs will deter customers during a period of economic instability. Marcin Kulak, director of Mekong Baby, stated that the move provides no community benefit and risks damaging the area’s reputation for accessibility. Kulak, who previously operated a business on Hurstmere Road in Takapuna, claimed that removing free parking zones historically correlates with reduced foot traffic for small operators. Biddie Cooksley, owner of Tuesday Label, expressed disappointment that the changes are proceeding despite significant pushback from the business community.

What are the concerns from residents?

Residents have challenged the necessity of the project, arguing that their streets do not face the congestion levels cited by AT. Feedback submitted to the transport agency included reports from Tole Street residents who noted that parking availability remains sufficient under current time-restricted rules. A group of Tole Street residents filed a petition against the plan, arguing that visitors and family members should not be required to pay to park near their homes. While AT maintains the policy balances local needs, the Waitematā Local Board specifically voted against extending these charges into the evening hours, citing a lack of evidence that parking congestion persists during those times.

Auckland Transport won't reduce parking fines despite saving on costs

What other infrastructure updates are coming?

The parking expansion is part of a wider series of urban changes planned for Ponsonby and Newmarket. According to Auckland Transport, the following adjustments are scheduled:

  • College Hill: Installation of a new clearway.
  • Margaret Street: Introduction of paid parking.
  • Fitzroy Street: Conversion of parallel parking to angle parking.
  • Ponsonby Road: Addition of dedicated ride-share drop-off and pick-up zones.
  • Broadway (Newmarket): Widening of footpaths.
  • Lion Place and St Mark’s Road: Replacement of unrestricted parking with P120 time-restricted zones.
Pro Tip:
Check the Auckland Transport website regularly for updated maps of parking zones before visiting Ponsonby, as time restrictions and paid zones vary by specific street.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will all side streets in Ponsonby now have paid parking?

No. According to Auckland Transport, three-quarters of on-street parking in Ponsonby will remain free of charge.

Why did business owners oppose the decision?

Many owners believe the new fees create a “direct threat to the viability” of small businesses, particularly as they navigate a recession with rising commercial vacancy rates.

Did the Local Board approve all aspects of the plan?

No. The Waitematā Local Board voted against extending paid parking into Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings, stating there was no clear problem to solve during those periods.


Have you noticed changes to parking in your neighborhood? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or subscribe to our local business newsletter for updates on urban development.

June 23, 2026 0 comments
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Business

New World Shoppers Shocked by $4 Potato Price Gap Across Auckland

by Chief Editor June 20, 2026
written by Chief Editor

Grocery price variations between local supermarkets are driven by independent ownership models rather than centralized price-setting, according to Foodstuffs. While consumers often report frustration over regional price gaps, retailers maintain that local store owners set prices based on operating costs, seasonal fluctuations, and specific community-based promotions.

Why do grocery prices vary between stores in the same chain?

Price differences occur because individual New World stores are independently owned and operated, allowing owners to set their own retail strategies. Foodstuffs stated that these owners have the discretion to vary pricing to meet local community needs. These decisions account for localized factors such as individual store operating costs, inventory levels, and the seasonality of produce.

Did you know?

Independent ownership means that two stores operating under the same brand banner can offer vastly different prices on the exact same items depending on their current local marketing goals.

How do special promotions impact local pricing?

Temporary price cuts, such as the 99-cent-per-kilogram potato promotion at New World Southmall, often result from specific store-level events rather than network-wide policy. According to the owner of New World Orewa, his store continues to sell produce at the recommended retail price, while Southmall chose to sell key lines at a “significant negative margin” to mark the owner’s one-year anniversary.

Comparison: Promotional vs. Standard Pricing

Store Location Pricing Strategy
New World Southmall Deeply discounted (negative margin) for anniversary
New World Orewa Standard recommended retail price

Is loyalty data used to manipulate prices?

Foodstuffs has rejected allegations that its Club+ loyalty program is used to identify the maximum price a community is willing to pay. The company maintains that insights from the program are strictly utilized to understand customer preferences and deliver relevant rewards. Foodstuffs emphasized that the program is not a tool for setting prices based on individual customer data.

Pro Tip:

If you notice significant price differences in your area, check the official store website or Facebook page for the specific location. Often, deep discounts are tied to local store milestones or clearance events that aren’t advertised nationally.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are all New World stores owned by the same company? No, each store is independently owned and operated, which allows for variability in pricing.
  • Does loyalty program data influence product pricing? Foodstuffs states that loyalty data is used for rewards and offers, not for setting maximum price points.
  • Why are some items cheaper at one store than another? Factors include local operating costs, inventory levels, and store-specific promotional campaigns.

Have you noticed significant price differences in your local grocery stores? Share your experiences in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on consumer trends and retail news.

Why Groceries Cost So Much in NZ: The Supermarket Duopoly Explained (2025)
June 20, 2026 0 comments
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Entertainment

Waiuku Museum Jewelry Heist: Mixed Collection of Real and Fake Items Stolen

by Chief Editor June 19, 2026
written by Chief Editor

Waiuku Museum is reviewing its security protocols after thieves broke into the facility overnight on June 1, stealing a collection of historic and costume jewellery. Police, led by Sergeant Michael Robinson, have conducted forensic examinations at the site but report no leads currently available to advance the investigation.

How are museums balancing public access with artifact security?

The theft at Waiuku Museum highlights a recurring challenge for small, community-run institutions: maintaining an open, welcoming environment while protecting vulnerable displays. According to volunteer curator Jane Thorne, the stolen items included both pieces of significant historical value, such as gold earrings from the former Richardsons Jewellers, and lower-value costume jewellery. While larger national museums often utilize high-end biometric security and 24-hour surveillance, regional museums frequently rely on volunteer oversight and physical locks. This incident demonstrates that even modest collections remain targets for opportunistic theft, prompting many smaller organizations to reconsider the use of reinforced display cases and motion-sensor alarms.

Did you know?

Small museums often face a “security gap” where the cost of advanced digital surveillance exceeds their annual operating budget, forcing them to prioritize community trust and volunteer-based monitoring over high-tech defensive measures.

What steps should the public take if they have information?

Police are urging anyone with knowledge of the theft or the current location of the jewellery to contact authorities immediately. Sergeant Michael Robinson has requested that members of the community share any relevant information through the following official channels:

  • Online: Contact the New Zealand Police via their official website.
  • Phone: Call 105 and cite the reference number 260604/5121.
  • Anonymous Tips: Call Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

Why does community support matter after a museum burglary?

Beyond the financial loss, the psychological impact of a break-in can be profound for volunteer-led organizations. Jane Thorne noted that the outpouring of community support has been a major source of encouragement for the museum’s volunteers. In the museum sector, community engagement is often the primary driver for funding and artifact donations. When a museum is targeted, the public response—ranging from social media advocacy to increased visitation—often serves as a deterrent to future incidents by signaling that the collection is highly valued by local residents.

Pro Tip:

If you own or manage a collection of historic items, ensure you have a digital inventory with clear photographs and insurance appraisals. This significantly aids police recovery efforts if items are ever stolen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was stolen from the Waiuku Museum?

The items included gold chains and gold teddy bear earrings from the closed Richardsons Jewellers, alongside various pieces of costume jewellery.

Manhunt Intensifies for Louvre Museum Jewelry Thieves

Is there a reward for information?

Police have not announced a reward. Information can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers to assist the ongoing investigation.

How can I help the museum?

The museum encourages the public to continue visiting and supporting local exhibitions. You can also contact the museum directly to inquire about volunteer opportunities or donation protocols.


Have you visited the Waiuku Museum recently? Share your thoughts on the importance of preserving local history in the comments below, or subscribe to our newsletter for updates on local heritage news.

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June 19, 2026 0 comments
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News

Auckland Police Warn Elderly of New Letterbox Bank Card Scam

by Rachel Morgan News Editor June 16, 2026
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Scammers are impersonating authorities and bank staff to trick victims into leaving bank cards and PINs in their letterboxes, a practice that has resulted in thousands of dollars being drained from personal accounts. According to police, this nationwide trend involves criminals gaining trust by claiming a victim’s account is compromised, leading to significant financial loss and distress for those targeted.

Did You Know? In a documented case in Whangārei, an elderly couple lost tens of thousands of dollars after being persuaded to leave their Eftpos cards and PINs in their own mailbox for collection.

How the scam operates

Criminals typically initiate contact by impersonating officials or bank employees to convince victims their finances are at risk. Once the victim’s trust is gained, they are instructed to place their bank card in their letterbox, where it is later collected by the scammer. According to Westpac NZ, some victims have even been offered cash as compensation for the perceived inconvenience, further misleading them into complying with the requests.

How the scam operates

Precedent and historical warnings

These incidents follow a series of warnings issued last September by financial institutions including Westpac NZ and ANZ. At that time, banks reported that scammers were frequently calling customers to demand bank cards and PINs. The methods have evolved from phone-based deception to include in-person collection, which police note has caused significant distress for victims across the country.

Expert Insight: This scam relies on the psychological manipulation of authority. By creating a false sense of urgency regarding a “compromised” account, criminals bypass the victim’s natural hesitation. The shift toward physical collection from letterboxes suggests a trend where scammers are increasingly comfortable with direct, local interaction to finalize their fraud.

Preventative steps and reporting

Police are urging the public to never provide PINs, passwords, or banking details over the phone, nor should anyone leave cards in a letterbox. If an individual is unsure about a caller’s identity, they should hang up and call their bank using the official number found on the back of their card. Any contact from someone claiming to be police can be verified by calling the non-emergency 105 line.

LabHost: Police search Auckland properties in connection to international scam operation | Newshub

Future implications

As these scams continue to target vulnerable populations, family members and caregivers are being asked to check in on elderly individuals to ensure they are aware of these tactics. It is likely that police will continue to monitor these reports, and victims may face ongoing financial recovery challenges. Anyone who has been targeted by this scam is advised to contact the police on 105 and notify their bank immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if someone asks me to leave my card in my letterbox?
Do not follow the instruction. Never leave your bank card or personal information in your letterbox or outside your home under any circumstances.

How can I verify if a caller is actually from the police?
If someone contacts you claiming to be the police, you can verify their identity by calling the police non-emergency number, 105.

What should I do if I believe I have been targeted by this scam?
You should report the incident to your bank immediately and contact the police by calling 105.

How do you ensure your elderly family members stay informed about the latest security threats in your community?

June 16, 2026 0 comments
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News

Pasifika Doctor’s Inspiring Journey to Earning Medical Degree

by Rachel Morgan News Editor June 14, 2026
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Emeline Mafi has begun her career as a junior doctor at Auckland’s Middlemore Hospital, marking the culmination of six years of academic study and significant family sacrifice. Mafi is one of 19 first-year Pacific doctors at the facility, contributing to a record-breaking national total of 55 Pasifika medical graduates entering the workforce this year, according to 1News.

How family support shaped a medical career

Mafi’s journey to medicine was a collective effort, according to her father, Puipui Mafi. The family, who reside in Otara, provided consistent financial and emotional support throughout her studies. Her three brothers contributed earnings weekly to ensure she could focus on her training without financial barriers, while her parents funded extra tuition and math classes during her high school years. Although she initially pursued a music degree at her father’s request to serve their church, Mafi transitioned to medicine after graduation. Puipui Mafi stated that he supported her decision to change paths, noting that while singing is a talent, the ability to save lives is a significant achievement.

How family support shaped a medical career

Why the increase in Pasifika doctors matters

The 2024 cohort marks a notable rise in Pacific representation, with 55 Pasifika graduates compared to 37 in 2022. Pediatrician Dame Teuila Percival, who works at Middlemore Hospital’s Kidz First, described the increase as “fabulous.” She noted that 30 years ago, there were few Pacific doctors in the region. The current goal is for 25% of doctors at Middlemore to be Pasifika, a target intended to better reflect the patient population. According to 1News, this demographic alignment is expected to improve patient care by allowing for better communication and cultural comfort, particularly as the hospital prepares for seasonal influxes of patients.

The Graduate Medical Education program at Maine Medical Center

What may happen next in regional healthcare

As these 55 new graduates enter the medical field, their presence could influence future recruitment and retention strategies for Pacific health professionals. With Middlemore Hospital managing high demand, including winter illnesses, the integration of these doctors may provide necessary staffing relief. Analysts might expect that the continued success of school-based science programs and medical school support systems could lead to further growth in Pasifika representation in coming years. For the Mafi family, the next phase involves a return to normalcy, as all four of their children have now completed their studies and entered the workforce.

June 14, 2026 0 comments
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News

Son Claims Deceased Mother ‘Looked Fine and Waved

by Rachel Morgan News Editor June 12, 2026
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

The son of 70-year-old Shulai Wang, whose body was discovered in plastic bags at Gulf Harbour in March 2024, told police he was instructed by a defendant to provide a specific version of his mother’s death. Four family members—Kaixiao Liu, Lanyue Xiao, Xiuyun Li, and Jingui Liu—are currently on trial at the Auckland High Court, facing charges of kidnapping and manslaughter in connection to Wang’s death.

Evidence of coached testimony

According to the Crown, recordings presented in court indicate that the victim’s son, Chunhong Wu, was coached by defendant Kaixiao Liu regarding what to tell authorities. During police interviews observed by New Zealand detectives Sha Lin and Beth Bates in Hainan, China, Wu claimed his mother died of natural causes, specifically “heart disease or failure,” and that she had traveled to New Zealand for a sea burial. However, the Crown prosecutor Henry Steele noted that there were no medical records to support a diagnosis of heart disease for Wang. Surveillance recordings from the defendants’ home in Ōrewa further revealed that Wu was directed to request the release of his mother’s body and express a desire to apologize to the family for the burial arrangements.

The Crown’s case regarding the religious group

The prosecution alleges that Wang traveled to New Zealand from China to receive religious instruction from Kaixiao Liu. Detective Lin testified that the family of the victim, including her husband and son, were members of “family 12,” one of at least 37 families identified as being devoted to Liu’s religious group. While the defendants’ legal team questioned the police on whether they understood the sensitivity of religious topics and the severity of false statements in China, Detective Bates maintained that the investigation had established the group was not politically motivated.

The Crown's case regarding the religious group

Potential next steps in the trial

The trial is expected to continue at the Auckland High Court as the jury evaluates the conflicting accounts of Wang’s final days. Given the testimony regarding the alleged coaching of witnesses, it is likely that the defense will continue to challenge the reliability of the evidence gathered by police during their interviews in Hainan. The court may also hear further evidence regarding the internal dynamics of the religious group and the extent to which the defendants exercised control over the victim and her family members prior to her death.

June 12, 2026 0 comments
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News

Customs Seizes 19.7kg of Meth Disguised as Green Tea

by Rachel Morgan News Editor June 11, 2026
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A 20-year-old New Zealand man was arrested at Auckland International Airport on Tuesday after Customs officers discovered 19.7 kg of methamphetamine hidden in his luggage. The drugs, estimated by NZ Customs to be worth over NZD$20.5 million, were disguised as green tea. The man is currently facing a charge of importing a class A controlled drug.

How the interception occurred

The man arrived at Auckland International Airport on a flight from Singapore. According to NZ Customs, he had previously traveled from New Zealand to the Philippines on June 1. Upon his arrival in Auckland, he was referred for a routine bag search. During the inspection, an X-ray of the man’s suitcase revealed a “crystal-like substance” scattered throughout his belongings. Further examination led officers to 18 individual packages labeled as green tea, which subsequent testing confirmed contained methamphetamine.

Why the seizure is significant

Customs Auckland Airport Manager Paul Williams stated that the interception prevented significant community harm, noting the estimated street value of the drugs reached over NZD$20.5 million. Officials emphasized the broader social impact of such seizures. According to Williams, criminal groups often target individuals with the promise of “fast money” to courier drugs across borders. He warned that this is a dangerous tactic that carries lifelong consequences for the courier and lasting trauma for their families.

What happens next in the legal process

The 20-year-old defendant was scheduled to appear in the Manukau District Court on Wednesday to face the charge of importing a class A controlled drug. As the case proceeds, the court will determine the next steps in the judicial process. Legal experts or the court may eventually decide on bail conditions, the scheduling of further hearings, or a trial date. The outcome of these proceedings will depend on the evidence presented regarding the importation and the individual’s role in the alleged operation.

Biggest meth seizure at NZ's border as countries secretly joined forces to tackle cartel | Newshub
June 11, 2026 0 comments
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