A two-and-a-half month inquiry had focused on a man who allegedly supplied methamphetamine to various dealers around Hawke's Bay, Gisborne and other parts of the country, said police spokesman Detective Inspector Mike Foster.
About 25 police staff were involved in the searches, including the Hawkes Bay Armed Offenders Squad and a Specialist Search Group.
"This was a difficult operation, not least because of the rural location of the property," Mr Foster said.
"We believe the arrest will make a significant dent in the supply of methamphetamine not just in the Eastern District, but to other parts of the country."
Methamphetamine is still regarded by police as a major driver of crime, particularly burglaries, and police were constantly dealing with offending that had its origins in drugs, Mr Foster added.
"It's well-known that a lot of burglaries and dishonesty crimes are linked to the offender's need to get drugs, often to support a habit.
"Methamphetamine is a major player in the criminal community and we are determined to bring those responsible to justice."
Napier community advocate Denis O'Reilly, who has headed community searches for answers to the methamphetamine problem, said a "spike" in methamphetamine availability in Hawke's Bay had been noticed.
"Something's going on," he said.
The finding of drugs, cash and weapons on farm properties, while not always incriminating the farmers, showed "what a horrible drug it is," he added.
