Air force helps police destroy 9000 cannabis plants

More than 9000 cannabis plants have been seized by South Island police as part of an ongoing operation.

Around 6000 "healthy" plants were taken and destroyed in Nelson-Marlborough, while more than 3000 were taken on the West Coast, police say.

The Air Force was also involved in the year-long operation.

The seizure is bigger than in a similar operation last year and included large commercial outdoor plots are well as indoor growing operations.

An Air Force NH90 was used to help police get to the difficult areas.

Thirteen people are now facing various drug and firearm charges, though Senior Sergeant Grant Andrews says more arrests are likely as police continue their inquiries.

Newshub.