Armed police including a specialist search group descended on a rural Waikato property in the early hours of this morning.

Police could be seen digging up “large white tubs” during the search of a rural Pōkeno property, a witness said.

Police blocked off Razorback Rd shortly after 5am and a spokesperson said “specialist teams” were making inquiries. 

A Herald photographer at the scene said the armed officers were “wearing chemical coveralls over their tactical gear”. 

The photographer saw several people being arrested for questioning as multiple officers, including a specialist search group and the Eagle helicopter, searched the area. 

“Two neighbours who pulled over for a look both said police were at the same address only two or three weeks ago,” the photographer said. 

Armed police conducting a search at a rural Pōkeno property in Waikato. Photo / Hayden Woodward 

“They mentioned that armed police and helicopters were involved as well.” 

Rachel Maher is an Auckland-based reporter who covers breaking news. She has worked for the Herald since 2022. 

- NZ Herald