By 3 News online staff
A New Zealand couple on a cruise are reported to have been found with almost 6kg of cocaine in their luggage.
US customs officials found the drugs during a routine check on the cruise liner while it was docked at the Port of San Francisco on January 25.
The couple arrested were New Zealanders Tony Wilkinson, 42, and Kirsty Harris, 25, along with an Australian, Ahmed Rachid, 27, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.
The New Zealanders were found with about 5.7kg and Rachid had 7.7kg of cocaine.
Combined it is estimated to be worth $1.1 million.
Authorities told the Chronicle they think Rachid was working with Wilkinson and Harris to smuggle in the cocaine.
Federal documents show all three were arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials for investigation of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
A Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesman told Stuff.co.nz the ministry was aware of the arrests and the couple were being provided consular assistance.
According to Ktvu.com, the cruise ship was the P&O Aurora, a “family friendly” ship.
It had arrived from Curacao in the Caribbean.
3 News