The Sydney man was arrested at the scene and charged with the manufacture of tobacco in relation to the crop, which was approximately seven acres in size.

The arrest came after a multi-agency investigation spanning several months involving police from Hunter Valley and the Rural Crime Prevention Team, the Australian Taxation Office and Australian Border Force.

In a statement, police said tobacco crops were often found in regional areas and can have an adverse effect on water tablelands and neighbouring properties.

Anyone who suspects illicit tobacco is being grown can report it anonymously to the illicit tobacco task force through the Australia Taxation Office on 1800 060 062 or by completing a tip off form through the ATO website.