A tourist who was caught driving with an alcohol level of almost five times the legal limit was fined $1250 and banned from driving in New Zealand for six months.
James Daniel Castile was stopped by police in Mt Aspiring Rd, in Wanaka, last November and recorded a blood-alcohol reading of 245mg.
He appeared in the Invercargill District Court yesterday after pleading guilty to careless and drink-driving.
Counsel Tanya McCullum described the situation as ''embarrassing'' and said her client was aware of his mistake.
Judge Mark Callaghan said Castile should not have been behind the wheel as he was well above the blood-alcohol limit of 50mg per 100ml.
The judge allowed him to have his passport back.
Ms McCullum said Castile was leaving the country immediately after his court appearance.
She could not say what his nationality was, and police said they were not allowed to disclose his nationality.
