‘Alco-gate’ too late for drink-driver

A recidivist drink-driver granted a rare reprieve by a judge is warning others not to make the same mistakes he has.

His plea comes as the Ministry of Transport reveals it’s watching the pilot of a high-tech anti-drinkdriving device in Australia.

The ministry is ‘‘paying close attention’’ to the results of the trial, which involves introducing a high-tech ‘‘boom’’ gate, called an alco-gate, at secret Melbourne locations. Drivers leaving carparks will be breathalysed by the technology and the gates will open only if they’re under the limit.

The technology was first trialled by Sweden for drivers coming off ferries and Australia’s National Roads and Motorists Association recommended the gates for high-risk events such as sports occasions or festivals.

The transport ministry’s safety manager, Brent Johnston, said that as part of its new road safety strategy, due for public consultation in April, it was investigating new technologies and was aware of the trial.

‘‘We are interested in the results, which we will pay close attention to before considering whether this or similar technologies could benefit New Zealand.’’