A man who refused to take a breath test has been ordered to participate in a drink-driver’s court treatment programme.

Dwayne Walch, 32, admitted the offence when he appeared in Magistrates’ Court.

The court heard that police saw Walch, from Southampton, leaving the Hamilton bus terminal on an electric bicycle on January 2.

Walch was carrying what was believed to be an open container of alcohol on his bike.

Officers said the container smelt like alcohol despite Walch emptying its contents onto the street and telling them it was water.

Walch refused to take a breath test both at the scene and the Hamilton Police Station.

Senior magistrate Maxanne Anderson ordered Walch, who admitted having a problem with alcohol, participate in DUI Court beginning on January 16, and ordered that a drug use assessment be written for him.

Walch was released on $1,500 bail and disqualified from driving all vehicles until further notice.

• It is The Royal Gazette’s policy not to allow comments on stories regarding court cases. As we are legally liable for any libellous or defamatory comments made on our website, this move is for our protection as well as that of our readers.