Last month, a coordinated effort between New Zealand Customs and Royal New Zealand Navy divers led to two major cocaine seizures at the Port of Tauranga. The night-time operations involved underwater hull searches of ships suspected of drug smuggling, resulting in the interception of narcotics worth tens of millions of dollars.
On 4 May, NZ Customs intercepted 157 kilograms of cocaine hidden inside three separate containers aboard a vessel arriving from Panama. Later, on 26 May, they uncovered 130 bricks of cocaine in a container on a second ship that had travelled from Italy via Panama.
While the drugs were ultimately found in containers, the Navy divers were essential in verifying that the ship hulls were clear of concealed contraband. Their expertise ensured that every possible hiding spot—including intakes and niche areas along the hull—was thoroughly inspected.
The first underwater mission involved 10 divers covering 223 metres of the ship’s hull in just over an hour. Sub Lieutenant Benjamin Ward, who participated in the May 4 operation, explained that the team investigated areas such as sea chests, where water is drawn in to cool engines or balance the ship. These spots can be exploited to hide narcotics.
Engineers from HMNZS Matataua were also onboard to help ensure ship systems were safely shut down for divers to operate. This coordination was critical, especially when working with international crews and overcoming language barriers. One ship arrived at 1 a.m., with the divers entering the water by 4 a.m. and completing their sweep by 5:30 a.m., while Customs simultaneously ran container x-rays.
Lieutenant John Duncan, involved in the 16 May operation, noted that engineers selectively shut down port or starboard intakes to allow safe underwater access. While obvious contraband might be spotted easily on flat surfaces, divers paid close attention to hard-to-reach niches.
Commodore Shane Arndell, the Maritime Component Commander, praised the collaboration, saying the Navy takes pride in helping to keep New Zealand safe from harmful drugs. The operations showcased both technical capability and strong interagency teamwork.
Lieutenant Commander Miles Amery, Matataua’s Operations Officer, highlighted the success of the missions as a clear example of effective night-time hull searching and seamless cooperation with NZ Customs, which directly contributed to the significant cocaine seizures.
5 June 2025
