Tractor-driving MP pleads not guilty

11.00am

National MP Shane Ardern pleaded not guilty when he appeared in Wellington District Court today charged with disorderly behaviour.

The charge follows him driving a tractor on the steps of Parliament while taking part in a protest about the so-called "flatulence tax" on September 4.

In an appearance lasting less than a minute, Ardern entered his plea and was remanded at large to reappear for a status hearing on November 25.

Ardern was supported in court by fellow National MPs John Carter and David Carter, and about 10 other supporters.

He had arrived at court on "Myrtle" -- the same tractor he drove up the steps -- and made sure her parking meter was full before going in to face the charge.

Myrtle sported a New Zealand flag and two signs, one reading "Exhibit A" and the other "Two Laws in NZ. One for Helen and her mob, one for the rest of us".

His supporters carried placards with a picture of Ardern behind bars and carrying the slogan "Free Shane Ardern, NZ's First Political Prisoner".

Ardern denied the placards made a mockery of real political prisoners.

"What you've got here is you've got a total double standard," he said.

"Unlike the Prime Minister, I haven't destroyed the evidence."

Ardern was referring to the destruction of the painting at the centre of the "paintergate" inquiry, prompted by Prime Minister Helen Clark signing an artwork which was not hers.

Police established a prima facie case for forgery against Miss Clark -- punishable by up to 10 years' jail -- but decided not to prosecute.

"As you can see we haven't destroyed the evidence, unlike the Prime Minister, and I'm being charged with driving this offensive piece of equipment here, which is obviously an iconic piece of farm equipment, up the steps of Parliament," Ardern said.

"If I can't do that, what can I do."

Ardern admitted it was not his first brush with the law but was coy on the details, saying he had appeared in court "many, many years ago" for a "teenage prank".

His offence then did not involve a tractor, a cow or speed "of any kind".

Ardern said being summonsed to appear in court was a serious matter and that he was taking it seriously.

However, he was not sure whether he would rather go to jail than pay a fine.

"I'll cross that bridge when I get there," he said.

- NZPA