At least 357 cannabis plants were found from four Manurewa flats. Photo: Supplied/NZ Police
A large cannabis operation in south Auckland has been uncovered by police after tip-offs by the public.
Counties Manukau central area commander Adam Pyne said officers from its Tactical Crime Unit executed four search warrants at four flats in Manurewa on Monday.
"They found at least 357 cannabis plants at various stages of maturity from within the four flats, totalling 444 kilograms," Inspector Pyne said.
"Approximately half of the plants were nearing maturity for harvesting, and we also found a significant amount of packaged cannabis located inside the oven in one of the flats."
The cannabis had an estimated street value of between $200,000 and $600,000.
The cannabis plants were at varying stages of maturity. Photo: Supplied/NZ Police
The plants were taken away and destroyed, said Pyne.
"No one was located during the search warrants, but we are continuing to make enquiries to locate those responsible and hold them to account."
"We are elated to have this illegal drug off the streets and out of the hands of dealers, and those would make profit from it."
Anyone with more information was being urged to contact police.