Police say more people are likely to be arrested following the discovery of more than $1 million worth of cannabis in Hawkes Bay.
They say Wednesday's search of four properties in the region uncovered more than 1000 plants and about 10kg of harvested cannabis.
One property alone contained more than 850 plants and $6000 in cash.
Organised Crime Unit head Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Foster says the properties were linked and those involved were part of a group growing and dealing cannabis, possibly with distribution also in Gisborne.
More people may be arrested once police have reviewed all the information collected from the houses.
The search warrants were the culmination of a four-month police operation.
Five men, aged from 37 to 48, will appear in the Hastings District Court next week on charges of cultivating cannabis and possessing cannabis for supply.
