Drink-driver on 23rd charge in custody

A man facing his 23rd drink-driving conviction is behind bars after being arrested at his girlfriend's house hours after failing to appear in court.

Kenneth James Morgan, 56, a builder, of Porirua, was photographed smoking by the Dominion Post outside the Porirua District Court on Friday - but he failed to appear when his name was called and an arrest warrant was issued.

He was caught about 10.50pm that day and was remanded in custody when he appeared in court on Saturday. He will reappear tomorrow.

Morgan had been facing charges of driving with excess breath alcohol and driving while disqualified after being arrested near Waikanae the previous weekend. Police said he was grossly intoxicated.

Morgan has 22 drink-drive convictions and 26 for driving while disqualified.

- NZPA