Three large cannabis plants found in public reserve in Paraparaumu

Constable Lizzie Campbell, from Kapiti police, located three large cannabis plants growing in a reserve at the northern end of Manly St, Paraparaumu Beach, on Wednesday.

The plants, concealed on Department of Conservation land, were well established and in the early stages of budding.

"Cannabis plants reach their full maturity outdoors in the area at Easter weekend, when growers look to harvest and dry their crops," Detective Matt Campbell said.

"The plants begin to bud or flower in February with reduced daylight after their vegetative stage over the long days of summer.

"These plants, given its root structure and health, could have yielded a pound of cannabis, with a street value of between $3000 to $5000."

Inquiries are continuing to find the owner.

"With the high temperatures and dry weather the area has been having lately, it is expected there are a lot more well established plants growing around the area.

"Police are planning an operation whereby known spots used for growing cannabis will be canvassed by staff for the illegal plants.

"The area is not generally known for the high amount of outdoor plots but the hills and many reserves around the area provide the perfect ground and concealment for cannabis growers.

"Police are always interested in the community to act as their eyes and ears, so if anyone has any information on the location of potential plots or individual plants, confidentially call crime stoppers on 0800555111, or direct to local police on 042966814."