Fake wall hides loaded gun, alleged drug-making materials in Auckland home

Author: NZ Herald,
Publish Date: Thu, 3 Sep 2026, 2:33pm

Two men have been arrested in Auckland’s North Shore after police found weapons and items that can be used in the manufacture of drugs behind a fake magnetic wall.

Waitematā Police received a tip linking suspects to methamphetamine production, causing Operation Dryden to be launched.

Detective Senior Sergeant Josh Lautogo said inquiries led police to a residential address on Ranch Ave, Beach Haven.

“Led by the Waitematā Offender Prevention Team, a search warrant was executed yesterday morning alongside the gang disruption unit, clan lab team, dog section, and specialist search group,” Lautogo said.

“As the search was conducted, officers identified a fake magnetic wall hidden within a wardrobe.”

Police found a loaded .22 calibre firearm and secondary magazine, about 20,000 pseudoephedrine tablets and chemicals allegedly used in the production of methamphetamine, with the materials allegedly having the potential to make up to 2kg of the drug.

Police found a firearm, items allegedly used in the production of methamphetamine and cash in a North Shore home as part of Operation Dryden. Photo / NZ Police

Police also found an ottoman inside the house containing thousands of dollars in cash. The two men at the address were taken into custody.

A 21-year-old man was charged with unlawful possession of a prohibited firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, possession of materials, equipment with intent, and unlawful possession of explosives and is due to reappear in North Shore District Court on September 24.

A 49-year-old man will appear in North Shore District Court today charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of cannabis, unlawful possession of ammunition, and possession of materials, equipment with intent.

“This was an excellent result which will disrupt organised criminal activity and those engaged in the production of illicit drugs,” Lautogo said.

“Police will continue to target the individuals and groups driving this harm in our communities.”