Customs officers have located what is believed to be about 50kg of cocaine hidden on a ship which docked in Tauranga.

Customs' Maritime Group found the drugs on April 21 as part of an onboard inspection of a freighter which had travelled from Panama and was destined for Sydney, says a Customs spokesperson.

'This seizure was supported by police and further investigations are underway.

'Customs cannot make further comment while investigations continue.”

A police spokesperson says they supported New Zealand Customs in this matter.

The National Drug Intelligence Bureau estimates the street value of the drugs as up to $25 million.

Meanwhile, a foreign national has been arrested at Auckland International Airport for smuggling approximately 3.25kg of cocaine and 2.25 litres of liquid cocaine on a flight from Dubai.

Customs officers located cocaine in the lining of her suitcase and liquid cocaine in bottles of hair products, adding up to an estimated street value of up to NZD$2.75 million.

Customs Auckland Airport manager, Steve Waugh, says this is a great demonstration of vigilance at the border by our frontline officers.

'Regardless of nationality or travel routes, anyone who tries to smuggle illicit drugs can expect to face consequences.

'We remain committed to protecting our communities from the harm these drugs cause.”