Drink-driver jailed for six months

A recidivist drink-driver's contention that he was getting better didn't wash with a Kaikohe judge - he's now serving six months in jail for his ninth conviction.

Jason Mark Friis, 40, appeared for sentencing in the Kaikohe District Court.

A breath test showed he had a level of 464 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath. Friis told his arresting officer: "See, I'm getting better, it was only just over 400[mcg - the legal limit]."