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New Zealand Police have arrested and charged five people after executing a series of search warrants targeting suspected local drug suppliers across Waikato East.
Around 16 staff from Waikato East Criminal Investigation Branch, along with the Prevention and Public Safety Team, carried out warrants in Matamata, Te Aroha and Whangamatā over three days last week.
In Matamata, two women from separate addresses were arrested and charged with supplying methamphetamine. They are due to appear in the Hamilton District Court on January 5 and January 15.
Two search warrants executed in Whangamatā uncovered 20 bags of methamphetamine. A 34-year-old local man has been charged with possessing methamphetamine for supply and obstructing Police. He is due to appear in the Waihi District Court on March 23, with further charges likely.
Police also located a suspected clandestine drug laboratory in Paeroa. Specialist clandestine lab teams attended to process the scene, and a 44-year-old man was arrested and remanded in custody on charges of possessing equipment and materials intended for manufacturing methamphetamine. He is due to appear in the Hamilton District Court on January 9, 2026.
Police say further analysis of items seized during the search is expected to provide evidence of methamphetamine manufacturing at the address.
During a separate search warrant in Kennedy Bay, a man was charged with possession of cannabis for supply, cultivating cannabis and unlawful possession of a firearm. He is due to appear in the Thames District Court on January 13.
Additional search warrants were executed at storage units and a residential property in Te Aroha, which Police say will form part of ongoing investigations into methamphetamine supply in the town and surrounding areas.
Waikato Eastern Area Commander Inspector Hywel Jones said the operation was aimed at disrupting local drug networks and reassuring the community.
“People see the harm that these drugs are causing in their whānau and communities,” Jones said.
“We hope news of this operation lets people know what’s happening and prompts them to tell us about any suspicious activity.”
Police are encouraging anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour to contact Police on 111. Information can also be reported via 105, either online or by phone.
