Queenstown doormen among eight arrested in drug supply operation

Kineta Knight
Kineta Knight
Jun 12, 2026 10:39 am |
Photo: Chris Lynch Media / police day
Photo: Chris Lynch Media

Five security guards working as doormen at Queenstown bars and clubs are among eight men arrested following a police investigation into the alleged supply of Class A drugs.

Police said the arrests followed a two-month operation in the Queenstown area, during which officers executed a number of search warrants relating to the possession and supply of drugs.

More than $120,000 in cash was seized, along with more than 60 grams of cocaine and quantities of ketamine, GBL and MDA.

Otago Lakes Central Investigations Manager Detective Senior Sergeant Steve Salton said taking eight alleged offenders “off the streets” was a strong result for the community.

The arrests have raised concerns about the role some of the accused allegedly held in Queenstown’s nightlife sector.

“It’s disappointing to see that people working in roles intended to keep people safe are in fact doing the opposite and causing huge amounts of community harm in the supply of these drugs,” Salton said.

Police said the matter had resulted in a security company losing its security licence.

Detective Senior Sergeant Salton said enquiries were ongoing and further arrests could not be ruled out.

Police are continuing to investigate the supply of illicit drugs in Queenstown and are urging anyone with information to contact them.

Kineta Knight
Kineta Knight

Kineta Knight is a highly experienced senior journalist, content creator and producer. She has worked as a reporter for radio, TV, digital and print, as well as editor of lifestyle magazines in NZ and the UK. Kineta's interests include all-things creative and community. Contact: [email protected]

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