Counties Manukau Police connected the dots to reunite a family with their beloved American bulldog.
Police arrested a man for dishonesty offences and breaching his release conditions.
During his arrest, police noticed the man had a very friendly American bulldog and were suspicious it was not his.
After making enquiries, police worked out the dog had been taken six months ago.
Staff managed to track down 'May' the bulldog's owners and reunite them.
A police statement said, "they were thrilled to get May back after so long, and our officers were happy they could help!"
A reunion photo was shared on the New Zealand Police Facebook page on Wednesday morning and has since had 4000 reactions, over 200 comments and more than 100 shares.
People commenting have enjoyed the post, congratulating the police on their endeavours.
One person commented saying "These are the only stories I actually care about. The reuniting animals with their owners are the best! Quick thinking officer".
Another supportive comment gives police a virtual pat on the back, "Great work to the officers who went the extra mile."
