Dan Carter is back in the country after being caught by French police drink-driving in Paris this week.
The former All Black and three time World Player of the Year has flown back to New Zealand for a pre-planned holiday, posting to Instagram announcing his return this morning.
"Just got back to NZ for what was supposed to be a fun pre planned holiday," he wrote.
"Seeing the family again puts fresh perspective on just how big a mistake I made. #dontdrinkanddrive."
The Racing92 player was caught drink-driving by French police on the Champs-Elysées on Wednesday night, reportedly with a blood alcohol level of 0.98g per litre - above the legal limit of 0.5g.
He also reportedly did not have his driver's licence with him.
French rugby journalist Richard Escot said he understood Carter had drank about four glasses of red wine at a dinner with his club and was not on a big night out when stopped by police for speeding on the Champs-Elysées in the French capital.
Speaking to Television New Zealand, Mr Escot referenced Carter's return, saying he was coming home to New Zealand "very sad".
"He has a contract, he will come back, but I wouldn't be surprised if he stopped at the end of his contract and never played rugby again."
Despite that prediction Escot said he didn't think the incident would harm Carter's reputation in France where he is "more famous than Richie McCaw".
Carter yesterday apologised for his actions, saying he made a "massive error of judgement".
"No excuses - I made a massive error of judgement and have let down my club, my fans and most importantly my family," he posted in a statement on Facebook.
The 34-year-old World Cup winner suffered a groin injury last month and is still undergoing treatment, while the French Top 14 takes a break next weekend for the Six Nations.
Carter's agent has been contacted by the New Zealand Herald for comment.
- NZ Herald and Reuters
