A 60-year-old man was arrested at the Auckland International Airport after $2m worth of P was found in his luggage.

The Northland man was returning from a month-long trip to South Africa and, through intelligence-sharing with Australian authorities, was intercepted by NZ Customs.

An X-ray revealed 2kg of methamphetamine hidden in the lining of his trolley bag.

The man appeared in the Manukau District Court yesterday afternoon on a charge of importing a class A controlled drug, and faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

Customs investigations manager Maurice O'Brien said Customs worked closely with local and international enforcement partners to share information that targets criminals trying to smuggle meth across borders through drug couriers.

"We have several mechanisms in place to identify high risk-passengers, and this case is another good example of our success in protecting each other's borders and communities."

Australian Crime Commission state manager Victoria, Jason Halls, said that serious and organised crime is global in nature and growing in sophistication.

"This seizure highlights the importance of a transnational approach when it comes to combating illicit drugs," Mr Halls said.