13 Mar 2017

James Rolleston pleads guilty to dangerous driving

10:57 am on 13 March 2017

Actor James Rolleston has pleaded guilty to a charge of dangerous driving after a serious crash that left him badly injured in July last year.

James Rolleston outside court after pleading guilty to dangerous driving.

James Rolleston, left, outside court this morning, with his lawyer Sam Teppett. Photo: RNZ / Edward Gay

The 19-year-old star of the hit New Zealand film Boy was badly hurt when a car he was driving struck a bridge in Opotiki in July.

Another 19-year-old man was injured in the crash.

Rolleston made his plea at the Auckland District Court this morning.

In a statement, he said he was "genuinely regretful" for his actions, and to the harm caused to his friend.

"I am grateful that we both survived and have the opportunity to make something of the lives we have ahead of us, despite the fact that I have a bit of recovery still ahead."

He said he hoped the coverage of his story would help other young people take more care on the roads.

"Just cause we are young, we are not indestructible, and in one stupid moment, there can be huge damage.

"I learned this the hard way, but thankfully have a second chance. We all need to recognise this, every time, and for every second we are in a vehicle."

Rolleston is due to be sentenced in the Opotiki District Court in May and could take part in a restorative justice conference.

Rolleston played the lead role in the recent film Pork Pie, a remake of Kiwi classic Goodbye Pork Pie.

Cliff Curtis and James Rolleston who star in the New Zealand film The Dark Horse.

James Rolleston, right, starred with Cliff Curtis in the New Zealand film The Dark Horse. Photo: Supplied

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