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/

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.

Photos from Aviation Security Service Explosive Detector Dogs's post

16/03/2026

Explosive Detector Dog Georgia, was showing her nephew Reggie the ropes on their walk together 🐾🐕‍🦺🐕‍🦺

05/03/2026

This Sunday is International Women’s Day and we’re grateful for all the women across our CAA/AvSec team who help keep New Zealand aviation safe and secure. 💜✈️

Today, we’re shining a spotlight on one of their stories. Aviation Security Officer, Ava, started as a casual Load-Assistant back in 2021 and now she’s a Step-Up Team Leader.

Ava says, “My journey with CAA started small, I only planned to be in a casual position and nothing more. However a few months into working I quickly saw and learned so much about AvSec and the CAA as a whole, this made me want to apply to be an Officer. Since then I have had amazing opportunities within the workplace and great progression in upping skills and responsibilities.

My favourite part of working as an Aviation Security Officer is the team that I get to work with! With our shift work we see our team for 6 days in a row and having a great team is really important. I am fortunate enough that I work with some amazing people, that are supportive, I'm able to have a good laugh with and a team that wants to put in the work.”

What inspires me most at work are my fellow colleagues - seeing the hard work and dedication they bring but also the level of care a respect they have. These attributes inspire me to keep working hard and keep being a good Aviation Security Officer!”

24/02/2026

Aviation Security Officers, Auckland Aviation Security Officers, Auckland

22/02/2026

Pups at Warbirds 🛩️ Check out AVSEC trainee detector pups, Reggie (the lab) and Stewie (Springer Spaniel) at the Warbirds hanger that the big dogs were training in 🐾

12/02/2026

Wag your tail if you love a sunset 🐾 Meet 12-week-old Rocco from Wellington

25/12/2025

Libby and Cooper spreading some festive cheer 🙌🎄

16/12/2025

Remember Gia, the proud mum of 8 potential detector pups? Her puppies are now 5 weeks old.

They are all healthy and Gia is an amazing mum. ❤

The litter of 8 will be shared between Civil Aviation Authority of NZ Aviation Security Service - AvSec and New Zealand Police . Our team will be taking the 6 that will be allocated around the country to train as Explosive Detector Dogs.