New Zealand fly-half Dan Carter has been handed a one-week suspension for his high tackle on Wales scrum-half Martin Roberts at a disciplinary hearing in London today.

Carter was cited after the All Blacks' 19-12 win over Wales in Cardiff on Saturday and appeared before International Rugby Board judicial officer Jeff Blackett.

Carter, who had already apologised for the tackle on replacement scrum-half Roberts, has the right of appeal and will be free to resume playing on November 17. As it stands, Carter will miss the All Blacks' match against Italy this Saturday.

He will be able to play in the clash with England at Twickenham on Saturday week (November 21).

The tackle came 10 minutes before the end of the match and was not fully seen by any of the match officials.

Referee Craig Joubert said that from his angle he was unable to make an accurate judgement on whether it constituted a dangerous tackle.

The hearing noted that Carter had a good disciplinary record and had not been sent off in his career.