High profile criminal Dean Wickliffe back in court

An application has been filed with the Parole Board to have Dean Wickliffe recalled to prison. Photo/File

Dean Hugh Wickliffe, one of New Zealand's most high-profile criminals, faces a possible recall to prison after he was allegedly caught drink-driving months after his release on parole.

For the time being, he remains at large.

Wickliffe, 69, who made a brief appearance in the Community Magistrates' Court today, entered no pleas to two charges.

Firstly, it is alleged he breached without reasonable excuse a special release condition of his parole by consuming alcohol on September 23 this year.

Police also allege Wickliffe was driving on Parton Rd in Papamoa that day with an excess breath alcohol of 754 micrograms - just over three times the adult legal limit of 250 micrograms.

The alleged drink-driving offence attracts a maximum sentence of two years' imprisonment and one year's prison for a breach of a special parole condition.

Wickliffe is serving a life sentence for the manslaughter of Wellington jeweller Paul Miet during an armed robbery, a sentenced originally imposed in 1972.

He has been released and recalled to prison six times since 1987 and he was most recently granted parole on May 17 this year.

The Department of Corrections has confirmed an application has been filed with the Parole Board to have Wickliffe recalled to prison as a result of the charges.

Wickliffe was represented by a duty solicitor in court today.

Community Magistrate Sherida Cooper remanded Wickliffe at large for his legal aid application to be processed.

His next court appearance is scheduled for next month.