Another 14 people have been arrested as part of an investigation into the smuggling of drugs into New Zealand using baggage handlers.
"A total of 24 people have been charged as a result of a six-month joint investigation by the NZ police's national organised crime group and NZ Customs investigating vulnerabilities at the New Zealand border and, in particular, Auckland International Airport and the Port of Auckland," a statement said.
Five of those arrested were allegedly involved in bringing 30kg of methamphetamine, packed and disguised as taro and cassava, in a container from Tonga to the Port of Auckland.
Of those arrested, two of them either worked at or transported containers from the Port of Auckland.
"Two King Cobra gang members and a gang associate were also charged," police said. "Two firearms were also seized during search warrants along with $20,000 in cash."
It comes after 14 people, including Auckland Airport baggage handlers, were arrested as part of a similar investigation last month. Police said another six Air New Zealand baggage handlers were charged on Wednesday.
"Nineteen search warrants were carried out today in Auckland in relation to further alleged drug smuggling between Los Angeles Airport (LAX) and Auckland Airport, which also involved the use of drug smuggling.
"Fourteen people have been charged in Auckland in relation to this criminal syndicate, which allegedly involved unchecked items being placed on aircraft flying out of LAX and into Auckland Airport.
"Police will allege that unchecked items were placed in the cargo holds of aircraft flying to Auckland before being removed from the aircraft where the alleged offenders would bypass security and take the drugs out of the airport."
Det Insp Paul Newman said the arrests show gangs continue to be at the centre of this type of offending.
"I would like to highlight the great work by our police and Customs investigators in identifying the vulnerabilities at our border.
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"We've been working closely with Air New Zealand over the course of this investigation. This partnership has been important in being able to progress enquiries and getting the results we've achieved today.
"This type of offending is highly concerning not only because of the harm drugs cause when they enter our communities but because of the ability to place unchecked items onto aircraft threatens the integrity and security of air travel."
Customs intelligence manager Bruce Berry said organised crime groups were actively looking to manipulate existing supply chain systems.
"Organisations within the supply chain have an important role in helping us protect New Zealand.
"Businesses know what their normal looks like - by reporting suspect shipments, situations or interactions to Customs they can help to build further intelligence and stop cross-border crimes.
"We continue to work closely with the industry, including across airports and ports who have been very cooperative with such investigations."
