The container originated in Ecuador before transiting through Panama. It arrived in Tauranga on 12 November 2026.
During the examination, Customs officers discovered 21 bricks of cocaine bound in brown wrapping in the external engine of the refrigerated container.
Acting Customs Maritime Operations Manager Northern, John Kelly, says the impact of transnational, serious and organised crime extends beyond the drugs being smuggled.
"New Zealand relies on seaports and airports as gateways for international trade. Every day thousands of shipments carrying goods for businesses and consumers move through these entry points.
"When criminal groups exploit legitimate supply chains, they put the security and integrity of our trade network at risk. Their activities are disruptive and can be costly to ports, shipping companies and businesses.
"Ports are vital gateways for the goods New Zealand businesses' and consumers rely on every day. Our work is about more than stopping drugs at the border, it's about protecting our communities, and enabling the efficient and safe flow of legitimate trade" said Mr Kelly.
Customs urges industry workers and the public to remain vigilant and help play a part in stopping organised crime. Suspicions about potential drug smuggling can be reported confidentially to 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
