Police are awaiting test results to confirm what could be New Zealand's highest ever breath alcohol reading.

Whakatane police pulled over a man in Kawerau at 7.15 yesterday morning, after a member of the public reported concerns over his behaviour.

He was the only person in the vehicle at the time.

Sergeant Ray Wylie said his breath alcohol reading was over 2000 micrograms per litre of breath - more than eight times the legal limit of 250.

Sergeant Wylie said the result is definitely the highest he's ever seen in the region - and quite possible the country.

He said it will take up to four weeks to get his blood tests back.