Queenstown police are issuing a pre-Winter Festival warning to motorists who drive after a big night out.
Senior Sergeant Paula Enoka, of Queenstown, said a 30-year-old local male was stopped at a police checkpoint on Arthurs Point Rd at 11am yesterday, and allegedly had a breath alcohol level of 526mcg.
Another driver was charged for drink-driving after being stopped on Sunday morning.
Snr Sgt Enoka said given the influx of people to the area for the ski season and Queenstown Winter Festival, which starts on Friday, police will target areas where many people will drive in the morning.
"It's just reminding people that perhaps if they are going to have a big night the night before to be mindful of their level, which will still be high the next day.
"We do know a lot of people come into town to have a good time - and that's fine.
"You've got to be responsible if you're going to be driving."
Separately, a 25-year-old Queenstown man has been charged with careless driving after rear-ending a car at 5.55pm yesterday on Kawarau Rd, near Queenstown Airport. He is scheduled to appear in court next week.
