'Pay or Stay' makes fine-dodger cough up after 19 years

The first interception of a fine-dodger under new laws has happened at Auckland International Airport.

From September 28, people owing large amounts in fines or reparations to victims of crime have been barred from leaving the country.

Courts Minister Rick Barker said yesterday the first fine-dodger to be picked up was a classic example of what the Government wanted to achieve.

"The person intercepted owed $3750 of reparation for an offence in 1986 and had made no payments since late 1987," he said.

"Once intercepted, the individual was given the option to pay the full amount owing.

"He did and was subsequently allowed to travel.

"I've said all along that if you have enough money to travel overseas, you have enough money to pay your reparation and fines.

"This person obviously had the money and it's only right he was made to pay what he owed.

"This person stood up in a court and said he was going to pay the victim of his crime reparation.

"He didn't follow this promise and, while he's been able to avoid the bailiff for the last 19 years, he couldn't escape the border agency."

Legislation passed this year allows people to be stopped from travelling internationally if they have a warrant for arrest and owe reparation of any amount or have more than $5000 in fines to pay.

Since commencing full operation on September 28, the "Pay or Stay" initiative has netted more than $10,000 from travellers who are sorting out unpaid fines or reparation before they set off to travel overseas.

- NZPA