New Zealand Justice minister steps down after drink driving crash

Kiri Allan, 39, has stepped down with immediate effect, after failing an alcohol breath test following a car crash. 

The New Zealand justice minister was charged with careless driving and resisting arrest. 

Allan is now the fourth minister from Prime Minister Chris Hipkins’ cabinet to leave since March, ahead of a general election due in October. 

The car crash, on Sunday night, took place in the capital of Wellington. There were no casualties. 

Following her arrest, Allan was detained at a police station for four hours before being released. She is due to appear in court at a later date. 

Allan had recently taken time off due to “personal difficulties”, only returning to work last Monday. 

PM Chris Hipkins said Allan had been suffering from “extreme emotional distress” and will remain as an MP for now.