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A Manawatū real estate agent who lost his licence for drink-driving was caught back behind the wheel just days later—all because his girlfriend didn’t want to be late for work, a court has heard.
Kelvin Waka Tane, 50, appeared in the Palmerston North District Court for sentencing after admitting to driving while disqualified. Despite being banned from driving on January 17 for one year and one day, Tane was spotted behind the wheel just four days later on January 21.
A History of Repeat Offending
Tane had lost his licence multiple times before. Court documents revealed he was caught in August 2024 with 594mcg of alcohol per litre of breath, more than double the legal limit of 250mcg. He had been convicted of drink-driving at least twice before this latest offence.
Despite his disqualification, he was seen driving on Napier Rd at 8:30 AM before being pulled over by police. When questioned, he told an officer he was unaware his ban had started—a claim the court found unconvincing given his repeated offences.
Kelvin Tane is a real estate agent working for Bayley’s. Supplied
Judge Calls Out Disregard for the Law
Community magistrate Carla na Nagara noted that Tane had already lost his licence at least four times before and described his repeat offending as “not a good look.”
“He made a poor decision to drive when he knew he was disqualified… because she [his girlfriend] didn’t want to be late for work,” said police prosecutor Shelley Ross.
The prosecution emphasized that Tane had a choice not to drive, but instead, he willingly broke the law.
Real Estate Career on the Line
Tane, a Bayleys real estate agent, has now been hit with a further six-month driving ban, to take effect after his current disqualification ends. He was also sentenced to six months of supervision and 40 hours of community work.
His defence lawyer, Fergus Steedman, admitted that Tane had made some “dumb decisions” but argued that community detention would negatively impact his work.
Tane’s relationship has since broken down, and his future as a real estate professional remains uncertain.
Repeat Offender’s Future in Doubt
Na Nagara stated that any sentence needed to address Tane’s ongoing issues with “attitude and decision-making,” reinforcing the seriousness of his actions.
While his lawyer expressed confidence that Tane wouldn’t make the same mistake again, his long history of licence suspensions raises serious questions about his ability to follow the law.
What’s Next for the Disgraced Agent?
Tane’s case has put a spotlight on professional accountability in the real estate industry. With his latest offence, concerns are growing about whether he will be allowed to continue working in real estate after his legal troubles.
As authorities crack down on repeat offenders, the Real Estate Authority (REA) may soon have to determine whether Tane remains fit to hold a real estate licence in New Zealand.
SOURCE: THE POST