Aviation Security Service Explosive Detector Dogs

Aviation Security Service Explosive Detector Dogs AvSec's detector dogs are specially trained to detect explosives, keeping you safe at NZ airports. Each EDD team consists of one dog and one handler.

About our dogs

Avsec’s explosive detector dogs (EDD) are different from Customs and MPI dogs. Their job is to sniff for explosives and explosive materials not drugs or food. These teams do a very important job protecting travellers, airline crew, airport workers and New Zealand at large by ensuring that no dangerous materials are present on aircraft or in our airports. They are based at the main

airports: Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown. Why do we need dogs? Our dog teams search for any explosives in car parks, navigation facilities, unattended cars and unattended items/bags, cargo, and aircraft. They also conduct random searches around the airport environment, at check in counters, screening points, and gate lounges. By being visible they can act as a deterrent for any wrongdoers. They also help other agencies like the Police, Customs and Corrections when there are bomb threats at airports as well as other places. Our dog teams are mobile, quick and the most reliable and cost-effective way of detecting explosives. Training
Teams undergo a 10 week training course and graduate from the Police Dog Training Centre as ‘Operational’. To be suitable for our programme the dogs need to be happy, confident, sociable, love to play with toys, with no aggression. Avsec’s explosive detector dog training programme was officially recognised by the United States’ Transportation Security Administration in October 2014 — a world-first acknowledgement. History
The EDD unit was started in 1992 with one team and will soon expand to over 32 teams. Collectible cards
Avsec’s collectible cards for each of its 32 dogs are designed to educate children about the safeguards that exist to protect them at the airport and in the air. Some children want to play with the dogs and others find their presence intimidating. The cards aim to help them understand that the dogs are at the airport to do an important job. The cards are handed out at airports where the dogs work and are an economical and effective way to educate, because the teams are often focused on their job and unable to stop and talk to travellers about what the dogs are doing. For further information please go to our website at the following address;

http://www.avsec.govt.nz/travellers/explosive-detector-dogs/about-our-dogs/

Quality control check complete. ✅Rock? Stable. Beach? Excellent. Sunset? Approved.Final assessment: a successful off-dut...
13/08/2026

Quality control check complete. ✅

Rock? Stable. Beach? Excellent. Sunset? Approved.

Final assessment: a successful off-duty adventure.

Sunsets, sand, and a very photogenic detector dog. 🌅🐾Thanks for striking a pose, Libby!
06/08/2026

Sunsets, sand, and a very photogenic detector dog. 🌅🐾

Thanks for striking a pose, Libby!

Tua, Rusty and Georgia hanging out after shift ☀️🐾
28/07/2026

Tua, Rusty and Georgia hanging out after shift ☀️🐾

Ned’s not just a cute face 🐶🐾This doggo does a very important job protecting travellers, airline crew, airport workers a...
21/07/2026

Ned’s not just a cute face 🐶🐾

This doggo does a very important job protecting travellers, airline crew, airport workers and New Zealand at large by ensuring that no explosive materials are present on aircraft or in our airport.

I spy Ned, the Explosive Detector Dog! 👀
15/07/2026

I spy Ned, the Explosive Detector Dog! 👀

By day, Bridget works for the Civil Aviation Authority of NZ and Aviation Security Service - AvSec. Outside of work, she...
07/07/2026

By day, Bridget works for the Civil Aviation Authority of NZ and Aviation Security Service - AvSec. Outside of work, she and her dog Bandit are a dedicated Search and Rescue team, helping locate lost, missing and injured people across New Zealand.

Like our Explosive Detector Dogs, Bandit is a working dog with an extraordinary sense of smell and impressive tracking skills that help keep people safe.

Recently, Bridget and Bandit, alongside their wider search and rescue team, received a Gold Award at the New Zealand Search and Rescue Awards at Parliament. The award recognised their role in the 20-day search for Argentine tourist Hector Gaston Artigau, who went missing while walking the Rob Roy Track in Mt Aspiring National Park.

We're incredibly proud of Bridget, Bandit and all the award recipients — including the working dogs whose dedication, skill and teamwork help keep New Zealanders and visitors safe every day.

👏 Congratulations, Bridget and Bandit! 🐕🏅

Happy Monday! Check out this dynamic duo: Ned and Otto 🐶💕
06/07/2026

Happy Monday! Check out this dynamic duo: Ned and Otto 🐶💕

Keeping New Zealand's skies safe and secure is all in a day's work for Otto the Explosive Detector Dog. Off duty, he's a...
30/06/2026

Keeping New Zealand's skies safe and secure is all in a day's work for Otto the Explosive Detector Dog. Off duty, he's all about walkies with his handler. 🐾

The Ned Diaries: From work mode to play mode—here's what Ned the Explosive Detector Dog gets up to on and off the job 🐶
25/06/2026

The Ned Diaries: From work mode to play mode—here's what Ned the Explosive Detector Dog gets up to on and off the job 🐶

12/05/2026

Queenstown is hiring Aviation Security Officers! Could you be the next? 👀✈️

https://careers.aviation.govt.nz/job/Queenstown-Aviation-Security-Officer-Queenstown-9349/1361034766/

Team Leader, Regina started at AvSec as an Officer. Now, she tells us all about why she loves aviation security as a career.

“My favourite part is the variety and the constant opportunity to grow. I love a challenge, and this role is one where you’re always learning, building knowledge, and developing new skills. Every shift is different, from meeting passengers from all walks of life to working alongside an amazing and supportive team. You’re constantly rotating through different areas, so the day stays engaging and you’re always working with and getting to know different teammates. You definitely collect a lot of cool and interesting work stories along the way!

When I started 10 years ago as a frontline officer, I never imagined how many opportunities would open up for me. Through continuous training, upskilling, and taking on new challenges, I’ve been able to grow both professionally and personally.

Stepping into a Team Leader role has been a highlight because I now get to mentor others, build team culture, and help create a workplace where people feel supported and valued. What I love most is that there are always pathways to keep learning, enhancing your skills, and progressing in your career.

I’m inspired by the people I work with every day and by seeing new officers grow in confidence and capability. I still remember what it felt like when I first started, and now I’m proud to be in a position where I can encourage and guide others on their journey. This career has helped shape me into a strong, resilient, and confident woman, and that’s why I’m passionate about showing others that they can thrive in this environment too.”

Applications for the Aviation Security Officer roles close before 24 May 2026.

Address

Auckland Airport
Auckland
2022

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