A major illegal firearms manufacturing operation has been uncovered in Kaiapoi, with police seizing hundreds of 3D printed gun components, operational weapons and ammunition.

A 45-year-old man has been charged after officers raided a property on Tuesday, discovering five 3D printers, including one still printing when they arrived.

Canterbury District Commander Superintendent Tony Hill said Operation Cross Country was a significant result for the region.

“These are firearms and ammunition that will never reach their intended destination, and our community is safer as a result.

“This has been a significant operation and we will continue to seek out those involved in the making and selling of these firearms to stamp out this type of offending, because the consequences could be devastating for our community.”

The haul included five fully operational 3D printed firearms, two cut-down firearms and 33 rounds of ammunition.

Officers also recovered 50 receivers, 34 magazines, 35 suppressors, 23 slides, 28 cylinders, 12 barrels, 64 springs, five foregrips and another 107 miscellaneous components.

Multiple digital blueprints for manufacturing weapons were discovered at the address.

“Just because some of the firearms are non-operational now, does not mean they would have been in the future.

“It is likely we have prevented a significant amount of harm from being inflicted on the community,” Hill said.

The investigation involved Canterbury’s Gang Disruption Unit, Offender Prevention Team and members of the Armed Offenders Squad.

“Police have put a stop to this syndicate’s operation and we’re not stopping here.

“We will continue to investigate and will target anyone who seeks to profit from the harm and destruction that this offending causes,” Hill said.

The accused is due to appear in Christchurch District Court today facing seven counts of unlawful possession of a pistol, two counts of unlawful possession of ammunition and further charges relating to illegal firearms manufacturing and possession of digital manufacturing blueprints.

Firearms experts are now assessing the seized items, with further arrests or charges possible as the investigation continues.

Hill issued a warning to others involved in similar offending.

“If you are engaged in this offending, you should expect to meet our staff soon.”