“On examination, it was found that both passengers’ suitcases contained identical contents of vacuum-sealed bags, wrapped in towels,” Wells said. “Each bag was found to contain approximately 18 vacuum-sealed packets of the class A controlled drug methamphetamine, concealed within green tea packaging. The approximate total weight of methamphetamine per suitcase was 18kg, with a combined total of approximately 36kg between both.”Customs say the methamphetamine was found in two passengers' suitcases, wrapped in towels and concealed in Playboy-branded green tea packaging. The charges were laid under the Misuse of Drugs Act and carry a maximum penalty of life in prison. Anyone with information about suspicious activity can contact Customs confidentially on 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Source: New Zealand Herald February 04, 2026 09:30 UTC