Steven Ambrose Paul appeared in Christchurch District Court Thursday charged with conspiring to defeat justice.
He pleaded guilty and then asked Judge Quentin Hix if he may be imprisoned for six months to "rehabilitate and recharge".
Paul's defence counsel said prison was "the best option for my client".
Judge Hix said Paul's offence was not worthy of prison and instead ordered him to attend He Waka Tapu, a programme for Maori designed to encourage positive health and wellness.
Paul told Judge Hix: "you will never see me again".