R v Paki - [2026] NZHC 1489

Sentencing for two charges of drugged driving causing injury and one of drugged driving causing death.

Held:

1. Starting point of 5.5 years warranted in light of aggravating features which included high THC concentration paired with alcohol, poor driving over a considerable period, known poor condition of vehicle, licence suspended at the time, on bail for driving while suspended at the time.

2. No adjustment for relevant but somewhat dated previous offending.

3. 10 per cent reduction for remorse and limited rehabilitation prospects.

4. 20 per cent reduction for guilty plea following "on the record" offer to plead to charge eventually filed by amendment.

5. Four-month reduction for 10 months spent on EM bail.

6. No reparation order made - no prospect of it being paid.

7. Outstanding fines remitted in light of prison sentence imposed.

8 .Sentences for three charges to be served concurrently. End sentence 3.5 years. Disqualification from driving for 4 years.