A learner driver who was under the influence of drugs when he struck four motorcyclists - three fatally - has been sentenced to eight and half years jail

A fourth rider lost an arm and a leg in the December 2024 crash near Utiku, south of Taihape.

Open Justice reports 52-year-old Garth Thompson, who has a history of drunk and dangerous driving, must serve at least half of his jail time, and will be disqualified from driving for five years once released.

He was sentenced on three charges of driving with a high-risk drug level, causing death, and a fourth count of the same but causing injury.

The judge described the victim impact statements as harrowing, with many serving life sentences of hurt, struggle and pain.