Photo: 123rf
The Head Hunters gang was being targeted in a police operation in West Auckland on Friday morning.
The Armed Offenders Squad was assisting in searches in View Road and Cranwell Street in Henderson.
Acting Detective Inspector Tim Williams said search warrants were being executed at numerous properties.
Police were also setting up checkpoints as part of Operation Cobalt.
"These checkpoints are moving and will be set up across different locations, alongside other vehicle stops in the area," Williams said.
"We are letting the public know they will see an increased visibility of our staff, and we are reassuring them this is part of our action being taken today."