"The cost to the taxpayer of sending illegal migrants home has nearly doubled in the past year, and now exceeds $3 million.
Most of those expelled - such as Iranian Saied Ghanbari, expelled at the weekend after more than a year on the run - are accompanied by officials.
Removal costs include air fares, departure taxes, escort and legal costs and interpreters' fees.
Immigration Service figures show that in the year to June 30, $3.08 million was spent on sending home 1205 illegal overstayers and people on temporary visas who committed crimes while in New Zealand. "
