Items made from rhino horn seized by authorities in Auckland. Photo: Supplied / NZ Police
Six carved items made from rhinoceros horn have been seized by authorities in Auckland.
It was thought to be the first time rhinoceros horn items have been seized domestically in New Zealand.
The Department of Conservation (DOC), customs and police carried out the investigation, securing 1.73kg of horn carved into bowls, jewellery and an "ornamental item".
"We believe these items - although relatively small - would fetch very high prices on the international black market," DOC investigator Dylan Swain said.
"Their prices would range from $15,000 to several hundred thousand dollars."
The items were found after search warrants were executed in Glenfield and Epsom.
Three out of four species of rhino in the world were critically endangered. Importing rhino horn without a permit was punishable by up to five years in prison or a $100,000 fine.
Customs investigation manager Cam Moore said it was critical government agencies worked together to combat the challenge of wildlife crime.
"This is a great result for all agencies involved."
