24 Mar 2015

Inquiry after captain caught over limit

4:24 pm on 24 March 2015

The international shipping company whose captain was fined for carrying out safety duties while drunk has started a full inquiry.

Pramod Kumar, left, and an agent for MUR Shipping at the Tauranga District Court.

Pramod Kumar, left, and an agent for MUR Shipping at the Tauranga District Court. Photo: RNZ / Natalie Mankelow

Pramod Kumar was the master of the 38,000 tonne African Harrier, which was berthed at Port of Tauranga, when he was found to be almost five times over the legal limit.

Pramod Kumar was fined $3000 at the Tauranga District Court.

Kumar's lawyer said he would pay the fine and leave the country.

MUR Shipping CEO Robert Muirhead said he was shocked and disappointed by the serious breach of regulations.

He said independent auditors would assist with the inquiry.