Border Patrol NZ: The shocking fight against smuggling and threats on Viasat True Crime

New Zealand’s borders are under constant threat from drug smuggling and the import of illegal goods, as well as from passengers bringing in plants, pests and animal diseases that could devastate the country's economy overnight. At the forefront of the fight against these threats are the Customs officers and MPI Biosecurity teams, who work tirelessly to protect the country. They are New Zealand’s Border Patrol. The programme Border Patrol NZ reveals their ongoing, real-life battle to protect the nation without any embellishments or shortcuts.

A real fight at the border – see the daily reality of Border Services

The new season of Border Patrol NZ on Viasat True Crime depicts the brutal, uncompromising fight against smuggling, fraud, and biological hazards. Every day brings new challenges for Customs officers as they track drug traffickers, detect fake passports and prevent the import of illegal goods. These are the people protecting New Zealand from economic and epidemiological disaster.

Drug and illegal goods smuggling

Officers intercept methamphetamine, cocaine and other dangerous substances hidden in toys, electronics and even glued to smugglers' bodies every day. Crime at the border knows no limits — fake passports, forged credit cards and people trying to enter the country under false pretences are an everyday reality for New Zealand Customs.

Biosecurity: the invisible war against biological threats

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) deals with the issue of illegal imports of food, plants, animals and insects on a daily basis. Each undeclared package or exotic shipment poses a potential threat to agriculture and public health. New Zealand’s biosecurity services prevent any pests or diseases from crossing the border and destroying the local economy.

Technology and courage: the weapons in the fight against crime.

New Zealand Customs uses state-of-the-art technology, including scanners, sniffer dogs and advanced forensic analysis. However, it is the courage and experience of the officers that determine the success of each operation. Every border check is a race against time and unpredictable danger.

When and where to watch?

The latest season of Border Patrol NZ premieres on Monday, 11 August 2025 at 18:00 CET on Viasat True Crime. Two episodes will air back-to-back every weekday, providing an ideal opportunity to witness the reality of border control.

Why you should watch:

If you’re fascinated by true stories, adrenaline and the behind-the-scenes work of border services, this show is for you. See a world where every decision can save millions of dollars and hundreds of lives. Border Patrol NZ is a no-nonsense programme that exposes criminals and highlights the vital importance of effective border control.

Don't miss the premiere! Watch on Viasat True Crime to see what the fight against 21^(st)-century crime and threats really looks like.