Queenstown police have praised members of the public who helped avert a potential tragedy early this morning.
A police media spokeswoman said just after 4am, police received a report an intoxicated person had been seen driving from a Frankton Rd petrol station.
Police located the vehicle, being driven erratically, but the driver initially failed to stop.
It was located again in Queenstown's CBD soon after - the driver was breath-tested an returned a result of 1184mcg.
The legal limit is 250mcg.
Otago Lakes Central Area acting road police manager Bruce Martin said the 23-year-old male driver was arrested and his vehicle impounded.
The man is due to appear in the Queenstown District Court on August 1, facing charges of drink-driving and failing to stop.
"If you're thinking of drinking, think about how you're getting home safely,'' Sgt Martin said.
"Grab a cab or get a designated driver, and help get everyone home safe.
"You can expect our officers to be out in force any time, anywhere, to deter unsafe driving behaviour."
