The conversation was the catalyst for a covert investigation, Operation Ocean Blue. A total of 120kg was recovered in the covert police investigation, Operation Ocean Blue. One of the 120 bricks of cocaine recovered from the sea chest of a ship docked in Tauranga during Operation Ocean Blue. Operation Ocean Blue stopped the inexperienced diver before he could enter the water because of fears for his safety. He said the significant seizure – and subsequent convictions – by Operation Ocean Blue highlighted the critical importance of local communities helping the police.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 06, 2026 16:09 UTC