Pro golfer caught drink-driving in Queenstown

Stephen Dartnall in the New Zealand Golf Open at the Hills Golf Course in Queenstown in 2009. Photo / NZPA

A pro golfer was caught drink-driving in Queenstown just hours after finishing 19th in the New Zealand Open.

Australian Stephen John Dartnall, 30, was stopped by police at 12.15am yesterday in Arthurs Point Rd.

He recorded a breath-alcohol level of 718mcg. The legal limit is 250mcg.

Dartnall won $9511.15 for his performance in the NZ Open at The Hills - leaving him ranked 388th in the world.

He was convicted and fined $700, with court costs $130, in the Queenstown District Court yesterday.

Dartnall, representing himself, told Judge Tony Couch there were no excuses.

''This is something I don't condone at all. It's just terrible. I feel horrible for doing it.''

Dartnall, who confirmed he had the funds to pay a fine immediately, was due to fly home to Australia at 4.15pm yesterday.

Sergeant Ian Collin said the golfer gave police officers no explanation for drink-driving, simply saying he was ''trying to get home''.