30 October 2006
Specialist reintegration unit opened at Rimutaka Prison
The Department of Corrections welcomes today’s opening of New Zealand’s first specialist mainstream reintegration unit
at Rimutaka Prison by the Minister of Corrections Hon. Damien O’Connor.
Public Prisons Service Wellington Regional Manager Dave East says the reintegration unit is an important step in helping
prisoners prepare for life in the community and reducing the chances of them re-offending.
“The Unit provides specialist custodial accommodation for 60 prisoners and will aim to increase prisoners general
competence, self-responsibility and self-reliance,” says Mr East.
“Staff at the Unit will work with prisoners who have the highest reintegrative needs in the final part of their sentence
and will assist them to find accommodation, employment, manage money, gain community support and maintain a balanced
lifestyle.”
The Unit will also provide an environment where prisoners can participate in Release to Work and vocational training.
Release to Work is a form of temporary release that allows prisoners nearing release to be employed during the day in
paid jobs in the community.
Mr East says prisoners who enter the Unit will have agreed to work towards their reintegration into the community and
are committed to getting on with their lives and becoming productive members of society.
“Reintegrating prisoners is in the interests of the community as a whole and therefore it is great that we can create
this supportive environment where prisoners can resolve their reintegration needs that would otherwise hinder their
transition back into the community,” Mr East says.
The Rimutaka Reintegration Unit is currently building up its prisoner numbers and should have reached a full complement
by Christmas.
ENDS