Court Security Seizes Guns, Drugs, and Weapons in New Zealand

Security officers at courthouses in Rotorua and Tauranga have confiscated a concerning array of banned items, from firearms to drugs, over the past year. Between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025, individuals attempted to smuggle in dangerous items, reflecting ongoing issues related to court security in New Zealand.

In Rotorua, security personnel apprehended an average of more than two individuals per week trying to bring prohibited items into the courthouse. This included not only cannabis and methamphetamine but also knives, tasers, and even a gun. In total, there were 125 instances of banned items being seized in Rotorua. Although Tauranga experienced a slightly lower rate of incidents, with 46 cases reported during the same period, one particularly alarming case involved an individual attempting to bring a machete into the courthouse.

The data, released by the Ministry of Justice under the Official Information Act, indicates a marked increase in security incidents at Rotorua’s courthouse. The number of individuals caught smuggling prohibited items rose from 90 during the previous year, while Tauranga saw a slight decline from 50 cases in the 2023/24 period. Overall, the Ministry of Justice reported a national increase of 19% in court security incidents, totaling 4,955 incidents compared to 4,147 in the previous year.

Addressing the Underlying Issues

Kevin Hollingsworth, executive director of the Mana Enhancing STOP Charitable Trust, emphasized the importance of preparedness for individuals appearing in court. His organization, which focuses on drug recovery, aims to help offenders understand their rights and responsibilities. Hollingsworth, a former drug dealer who has been sober since 2011, noted that many offenders struggle with the daunting experience of appearing before a judge.

“Going to court can hinder our people,” Hollingsworth explained. He highlighted that many individuals caught in the cycle of recidivism lack the necessary support and education to navigate their legal challenges effectively. His organization offers programs designed to help individuals change their narratives and improve their court outcomes.

“Sometimes they are so high, they are not aware of what they have on them,” he added, pointing out the critical role of social support in breaking harmful patterns of behaviour.

Role of Court Security

Under the Courts Security Act 1999, court security officers are empowered to confiscate items that may pose a threat. They screen all visitors using metal detectors and X-ray machines and can conduct further searches if necessary. If a visitor carries a prohibited item, security officers may detain the individual and refer the matter to the police.

Peter Cowan, national security operations director for the Ministry of Justice, described the thorough security protocols in place. Each person entering the courthouse passes through a metal detector. If the detector is triggered, handheld devices are used to identify the source, and additional searches may be conducted if required. As of early November, there were 16 court security officers in Rotorua and 15 in Tauranga, with several vacancies remaining.

The items confiscated over the past year from both courthouses reveal the alarming nature of the incidents. In Rotorua, a long list includes cannabis pipes, methamphetamine paraphernalia, firearms, and various knives. In Tauranga, items included a taser, knives, and even a can of beer.

As the data underscores the persistent challenges facing court security, the Ministry of Justice and local organizations like Mana Enhancing STOP Charitable Trust continue to seek solutions aimed at reducing these incidents and supporting individuals in their legal journeys.