2.6 tonne excavator seized as part of North Island operation targeting organised crime

Police have carried out a number of search warrants in the past week, Palmerston North, rural Manawatu, Auckland and the Bay of Plenty.

They've searched 16 properties, shut down two active clan labs, and found 12 firearms, ammunition and a taser.

They also seized four cars, six motorbikes, the stolen excavator valued at 35-thousand dollars - as well as two stolen trailers and a wad of cash.

13 people are facing charges.