Seven arrested in major Waikato drugs bust

Waikato police have smashed a major methamphetamine ring on the Coromandel which they say will put a "serious dent" in the illegal drugs trade in the region.

Seven people have been arrested and firearms, a Taser stun gun, quantities of dried cannabis, cannabis plants, drug implements and equipment used in the manufacture of methamphetamine recovered in raids following the months long covert operation.

Detective Sergeant Glenn Tinsley, of Waihi CIB, said six search warrants were executed in the Coromandel area and two in Auckland.

"Of particular interest was the discovery of 1.5kg of a precursor chemical, ContacNT that has an estimated street value of between $55-$60,000," he said.

"Over $62,000 cash was seized as well as two ounces of methamphetamine, with an estimated street value of about $56,000."

A stolen aluminium boat and outboard motor were also recovered.

Mr Tinsley said the operation was carried out with the help of the Auckland-based police Eagle helicopter and the Waikato armed offenders squad.

Five men and two women face charges ranging from manufacturing, supplying and possession of supply of methamphetamine, cultivating and possession of cannabis, and illegal possession of firearms.

Further charges are likely.

Mr Tinsley said police hoped the operation would send a clear message to the criminal community that their activities were not welcome in Waikato.

"Increasingly we're finding not only links to the illegal drug and firearms trades but links to dishonesty offending, with burglars using your stolen television or other electronic item to fund their drug habits and line the pockets of criminal specialists."

- NZPA