Police Minister Michael Woodhouse learned an important lesson after getting a drink-driving conviction when he was 21 years old, he says.
Michael Woodhouse Photo: RNZ / Jane Patterson
Mr Woodhouse said he became a lot more aware of the risks on the road after being charged with drink-driving.
He said the conviction was a long time ago and while he was not proud of it, it was part of his background.
"We have a House of of Representatives, not a House of Angels and we bring all of our background, skills and experience to our work, and that was part of my background.
"I'm certainly not proud of it, but it was a long time ago and I've learned my lesson."
It was up to the public to decide if the conviction undermined his credibility as a Minister of Police, he said.
