Rugby: Smith faces further penalties

Hurricanes winger David Smith's professional career could be in jeopardy as the New Zealand Rugby Union reopens disciplinary proceedings following his drink-driving conviction.

In the Wellington District Court on Monday, Smith, 23, was fined $800 and disqualified from driving for nine months after pleading guilty to excess blood alcohol and careless use of a vehicle.

But the sanctions may not end there. As well as punishment from the NZRU, the Department of Immigration could revoke his work permit.

The Samoan national had sought a discharge without conviction but Judge Craig Thompson refused to accept possible immigration problems outweighed the seriousness of the offence.

If Smith's permit is withdrawn he may have to leave the country.

Smith crashed his car into a parked vehicle while checking a text message as he drove home in central Wellington on May 24.

He crossed the centre line and hit the car about 7.18am, pushing it into two others.

Smith had an excess breath alcohol of 821 mcg - more than twice the legal limit of 400.

The Dominion Post said Smith had organised transport for the owners of the cars he damaged and would pay for repairs.

The NZRU opened a misconduct investigation shortly after the incident but it was put on hold pending the outcome of the court proceedings.

Smith was expected to meet NZRU officials this week; the Wellington Rugby Union considered the matter closed and would not be taking any disciplinary action.

- NZPA