Drink driver told letter of remorse was 'utter rubbish'

File photo / NZ Herald

A drink driver convicted for the 13th time after being caught on the way to watch a rugby match, was told his letter of remorse was "utter rubbish".

John Thomas Hindrup, 56, was jailed for 18 months when he pleaded guilty in Gisborne District Court to drink-driving (for the third time or more).

He had a breath-alcohol level of 874 micrograms and drove disqualified for the third time or more. Both offences were committed last September. The adult limit is 400mcg per litre of breath.

The court was told Hindrup drove because he heard another of his vehicles was being stolen.

But Judge Roy Wade said Hindrup told police he drove because he wanted to watch a rugby match.

Judge Wade dismissed Hindrup's letter of remorse, his "protestations" and references to his church.

Hindrup had 12 previous convictions for drink-driving and 19 for driving while disqualified. He had previously been jailed for similar offences.

Judge Wade said court orders meant nothing to Hindrup, who might well "take out" innocent members of the public - and they needed to be protected.

The judge imposed a starting point for sentencing of two years imprisonment and took off 25 per cent for Hindrup's guilty plea.