UPDATED 6.24PM: A Chinese tourist who drove on the wrong side of the road, killing a young girl, has been sent to jail for 18 months.

32-year-old Jing Cao has been sentenced in the Dunedin District Court, on one charge of dangerous driving death and five of dangerous driving causing injury.

Five-year-old Ruby Marris (pictured) died when Cao's four wheel drive crossed the centre line and struck the car her family was travelling in, north of Dunedin.

Judge Phillips made it clear that home detention was not suitable. He also said he wanted to send a clear message. 

Ruby's father Tristan Marris held a photo of his daughter while reading his victim impact statement.

He told the court Cao has lacked empathy and remorse over the death.

"Ruby was dying in her mother's arms. You walked past twice on your phone while Ruby was dying."

Cao offered an apology and was ordered to pay $60,000 in reparations.