A claim by Malaysian tourist Choi Lok Siong, 38, that he was too busy travelling to go to court and face a drunken driving charge, did not wash with a New Zealand judge, a newspaper reported on Saturday. Judge Geoff Rea issued a warrant for Choi's arrest when he failed to appear in the Napier District Court, sending a letter pleading guilty and promising not to re-offend, the Dominion Post reported.
"Being a tourist I am always travelling and moving all around the places in this country, which is of this particular reason that I may find it difficult to attend the summons and court hearing as scheduled," Choi wrote. "Your goodwill and your co-operation is needed and very much appreciated in order to make my travelling in New Zealand memorable."