New Zealand Customs officials at Auckland International Airport intercepted approximately 22 pounds of methamphetamine disguised as Christmas gifts. The drugs, valued at over $2 million USD, were found in the carry-on bag of a 29-year-old woman arriving on a December 8th flight from Vancouver.

During a search of her duffle bag, officers uncovered the methamphetamine concealed under festive snowflake wrapping paper.

Auckland Airport Manager Paul Williams described the incident as a typical tactic used by international drug trafficking organizations to exploit the airport’s high volume of passengers, emphasizing the vigilance of airport staff in detecting such attempts.

The Canadian citizen has been arrested and charged with importing and possessing a Class A controlled drug for supply. She has appeared in district court.

Authorities are collaborating with Canadian counterparts to disrupt drug smuggling operations, but further details are withheld due to the ongoing investigation.