Customs strengthens maritime border with new underwater capability
02.00pm 22 May 2026
Customs has introduced three Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) to strengthen its maritime border operations and support efforts to disrupt transnational serious and organised crime.
The Minister of Customs, Hon. Casey Costello formally commissioned the new capability alongside Customs officials and its Maritime team, in Auckland today (22 May 2026).
Customs Group Manager Maritime, Paul Campbell, says the ROVs were procured following a technology trial supported by the Australian Border Force.
“This enhanced search capability means faster targeted inspections and smarter deployment of specialist divers. With ROVs conducting below waterline checks, specialist dive teams can focus on recovery operations rather than routine inspection,” Paul Campbell said.
The procurement comes from the Government’s Budget 2023 maritime supply chain funding as part of a broader programme to strengthen maritime border security.
“Transnational criminal groups are increasingly exploiting the scale and complexity of the maritime environment to move illicit drugs into New Zealand and across the Pacific.
“Customs has, in recent years, invested in a range of maritime capabilities, including uncrewed surface vessels, at-sea boarding capability, specialist detection tools, and now remotely operated vehicles. Each of these tools adds to Customs’ layered defence and plays a distinct role in detecting and disrupting criminal activity.
“Our response brings together intelligence, partnerships, technology, and frontline expertise to target, identify, and respond to border risks earlier – in collaboration with our partners in New Zealand and overseas as needed.
“By using the same ROV technology as the Royal New Zealand Navy and the Australian Border Force, Customs is also strengthening interoperability with our partners – supporting coordinated operations and a more effective response to maritime risks.
“Ultimately, this investment supports our role in protecting New Zealand and contributing to security across the Pacific,” Mr Campbell said.
The Minister of Customs used the ROV commissioning event to make a pre-Budget 2026 announcement that further invests in Customs’ capabilities to combat illicit smuggling.
If you know or suspect someone may be involved in smuggling activity, call Customs’ 24-hour confidential hotline on 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
