Customs found 14kg worth $5m in a Canadian's suitcase. Photo: Supplied / NZ Customs
A woman has been caught with over $5 million worth of methamphetamine in her suitcase at Auckland Airport.
The woman, 27, landed in Auckland on a flight from Vancouver on 30 October, a Customs spokesperson said.
She was referred to Customs for further questions, and a baggage search by officers found two sealed packages of meth wrapped in towels, totalling 14 kilograms.
That's enough for 700,000 individual doses, worth up to $5.25 million in street value, and has an estimated cost of over $15 million in harm to New Zealand, the spokesperson said.
Customs Auckland Airport manager, Paul Williams, said it's a case of individuals being targeted and exploited by trans-national criminal syndicates.
"Our message to anyone who thinks this is easy money - don't do it. Don't be a pawn in their game. Your chances of making money balanced against your chances of getting caught mean the risk isn't worth it.
"I commend our front-line officers and support teams, who all played their part to protect our borders."
The woman, who holds a Canadian passport, has been charged with importing methamphetamine, and possessing the drug for supply.
She has been remanded in custody, and will re-appear in court in January.
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