Four people are facing multiple charges after police uncovered drugs, firearms, and equipment used for manufacturing methamphetamine in a series of coordinated raids across Mangawhai Heads, Massey, and Kumeū earlier this week.

Waitematā Police, assisted by the Armed Offenders Squad, carried out two search warrants simultaneously in the early hours of Tuesday morning — one on Molesworth Drive in Mangawhai Heads and another on Birdwood Road in Massey.

During the Mangawhai operation, officers located around two kilograms of ephedrine, along with chemicals and tools believed to be used in the production of methamphetamine. Two people were taken into custody at the property.

Information gathered from the Massey address led investigators to a third site in Kumeū, where police found additional clan lab-style equipment and several firearms, including a loaded double-barrel shotgun, a loaded Glock pistol, and an unloaded rifle. Two more individuals were arrested nearby.

Detective Sergeant Ray Fa’aofo praised the team effort behind the operation, saying the swift and coordinated response prevented significant harm.

“The planning, preparation, and quick actions of staff were key to the success of these warrants,” he said.

“Stopping the manufacture and supply of illicit drugs, and removing firearms from circulation, is a great result. The potential social damage that could have followed if this had continued would have been enormous.”

Those arrested include:

• A 41-year-old man, due in Auckland District Court on 12 December, facing several charges including unlawful possession of firearms and possession of equipment with intent to manufacture.
• A 46-year-old man, appearing in North Shore District Court, charged with manufacturing methamphetamine and possession of equipment with intent to manufacture.
• A 32-year-old man, appearing in Waitākere District Court, charged with possession of methamphetamine for supply.
• A 45-year-old woman, also appearing in North Shore District Court, charged with manufacturing methamphetamine.

Police are reminding the public to report any suspicious activity or suspected drug operations by calling 111 if it’s happening now, or 105 after the fact. Anonymous tips can also be made to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.