What happens if I'm caught drink-driving in New Zealand?

General information from Lawmateanz

For drivers aged 20 and over, the legal limit is 250 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath, or 50 milligrams per 100 millilitres of blood. For drivers under 20, the limit is zero.

If you're aged 20 or over and your breath result is between 251 and 400 micrograms, it's usually dealt with by an infringement notice, with a fine and demerit points, rather than a criminal charge.

Above 400 micrograms (or 80 milligrams in blood), or if you refuse a test, it's a criminal offence. Penalties can include a fine, disqualification from driving and, for repeat or high-level offences, an alcohol interlock licence or other sentences.

Your licence can also be suspended on the spot for 28 days if you're well over the limit.

Because a conviction affects your licence and record, it's worth getting legal advice before your court date. A free duty lawyer is available at court, and legal aid may be available.

Written by Lawmateanz, not by a lawyer. General information only, not legal advice about your situation. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer.

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General information only. Answers are written by independent lawyers based only on what's in the question. They aren't legal advice about your situation and don't create a lawyer–client relationship. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer directly.