Four people have been charged with serious drug offences after 2.5kg of cocaine was found at Auckland Airport.
The drugs were found last Friday by Customs officers at the international terminal hidden in two suitcases.
It is alleged the drugs were brought into New Zealand by a 42-year-old Brazilian national who arrived on a flight from South America.
Detective Senior Sergeant Lloyd Schmid said on Tuesday the cocaine seized had a street value of up to $1 million.
Mr Shmid said the five-day investigation revealed a supply route from Auckland to Christchurch, where there have been several other arrests.
Three other Brazilian men in their 30s have also been arrested and face drug importation and supply charges.