Police have recovered two Lindauer paintings stolen in a high-profile ram-raid in Auckland 5 years ago.

They were painted in 1884 and had a combined value of around one million dollars in 2017.

The police say they were contacted by someone, who wanted to return the paintings on behalf of others.

Forensic testing is still underway and at this stage, no arrests have been made.

The paintings were returned to the International Art Centre in Parnell yesterday.

The Centre's director Frances Davies spoke to Katie Scotcher.