Police have discovered a secret lab while investigating a violent kidnapping in Auckland last week.
Officers are searching for wanted Auckland man Ralph Park following the kidnapping in Beach Haven on April 2.
As part of the investigation, before sunrise on Wednesday, officers approached a rental property on Creightons Rd in Clevedon.
The road was closed during the pre-planned search where armed police and Eagle helicopter were brought in.
The rental is managed by a local real estate agency but it was understood the property was owned by former Auckland Mayor Phil Goff, TVNZ said.
"On approaching the address, our staff have encountered occupants at the address who became obstructive towards them," Det Insp Callum McNeill said.
"We can confirm a clandestine laboratory has since been discovered at the property."
McNeill said officers spent some time speaking with the occupants before they could safely enter the property.
Park was not located there.
However, a 35-year-old man was arrested at the address and will be facing charges relating to the clandestine laboratory that was discovered. He was expected in the Manukau District Court on Thursday.
Due to the nature of the discovery, resources from other emergency services were deployed as a precautionary measure, McNeill said.
"Our investigation team are continuing to carry out a thorough examination of the rural property and, at this stage, we can't advise of any further items of interest located.
"Police are in contact with the property's owners, who are overseas, to update them on the situation."
Meanwhile, anyone with information about the whereabouts of Park is urged to contact the police.
He is described as 166 centimetres tall and of thin build.
"If you see Ralph Park, continue to consider him dangerous and do not approach him. Contact police immediately on 111," McNeill said.
Information can also be provided anonymously through CrimeStoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
