Colombian nationals charged over an alleged cocaine smuggling ring have pleaded not guilty - and will go to trial

Eight people were arrested after a joint 10-month National Organised Crime Group and Customs operation that led to one of New Zealand's biggest drug busts.

It's alleged drug smugglers brought 50 kilograms of cocaine into the country from Colombia, worth millions of dollars.

They all appeared at Christchurch District Court this afternoon on charges, ranging from importing cocaine and money laundering.

No trial dates have yet been set.