More than 40,000 LSD tabs were intercepted in Auckland last week by a joint police and Customs operation — marking one of New Zealand’s largest-ever seizures of the psychedelic drug.
Four search warrants were executed across the region under Operation Spin by the National Organised Crime Group, resulting in the discovery of 40,800 LSD tabs with a street value of more than a million dollars.
Detective Senior Sergeant Reece Sirl said it was the largest quantity of LSD for New Zealand located in the possession of one person.
“LSD is a potent psychoactive substance, and large quantities such as this are rarely encountered these days in New Zealand.”
Most recently, the largest seizure of LSD in New Zealand was in March 2023 with 10,029 seized by Customs.
Before that, in 2000, police seized two separate hauls of 14,000 tabs each.

Sirl said it was a “pleasing result” for the team.
“Our focus as always is to continue targeting those that illegally accumulate cash and assets through the sale of illegal drugs. This seizure is another example of the work being carried out to make New Zealand more resilient to transnational organised crime.”
A 30-year-old faces charges related to the importation, possession, and supply of cocaine, as well as possession for supply of LSD.
A 25-year-old has been charged with importing cocaine. Both remained before the Waitakere District Court.
Police said more charges were likely as further individuals were identified as being involved.