Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
More than 200 grams of cocaine and MDMA as well as $88,000 has been seized by Central Otago police in recent weeks.
In a statement, Detective Sergeant Regan Boucher said nine people had been arrested.
"We continue to observe higher recreational drug use throughout the Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago districts, consistent with the larger concentration of controlled substances such as MDMA, and cocaine detected in Southern Police District's wastewater.
"A total of 170 grams of cocaine, 40 grams of MDMA, and MDMA pills, worth approximately $88,000 have been seized, following multiple search warrants across Queenstown, Cromwell, Alexandra, and Wanaka."
Boucher said police could continue to target and hold offenders to account, given the harm such drugs can cause.
He said MDMA, cocaine or non-prescribed ketamine can often be misrepresented and those purchasing the drugs may not know what they are actually buying.
"These types of drugs cross all social sectors of our community, including people of all ages, visitors to the area and residents.
"Police ask those thinking of using controlled substances to think twice."
Those arrested in Central Otago would be facing court in the coming weeks.
