For Immediate Release 11 July 2009

Short sharp tikanga programme motivating offenders to address offending

A three day intensive ‘live in’ tikanga Maori programme is assisting prisoners’ motivation to address their offending says Prison Manager Jon Howe.

“Nineteen prisoners have yesterday completed a three day programme, which has involved them living in the pua wananga (cultural space) inside the prison and gaining insight into how culture can help change their behaviours,” says Mr Howe.

Tikanga Maori programmes across New Zealand’s prisons use Maori philosophy, values, knowledge and practice to help prisoners increase their understanding of their Maori identity, teach them values and improve their self-esteem - helping them become motivated to address the causes of their offending.

“The programme taught me how to deal with things differently – there are other ways. I want to do the right thing, and I definitely want to learn more about my identity as a Maori,” says 34 year old prisoner Callum, in prison for aggravated robbery.

“We want these men to think about their responsibilities. Their responsibilities to their tipuna (ancestors), their whanau, their mokopuna (grandchildren) and even future generations. Is their offending, and winding up in our custody really what they want to be known for?” says Mr Howe.

“Although the programme is short, it can provide insight for a prisoner into what they need to do to start making changes for themselves. We can encourage prisoners to address their offending behaviours, but unless they really want to change they won’t.”

“From here, prisoners get a clearer picture of what help they might need to address their offending – whether it be help with their drinking or drug use, an anti-violence programme or to develop a positive work ethic by being employed as a unit cleaner or similar.”

Jake, another prisoner with a violent history who finished the course yesterday says he is hopeful that he can change his behaviours eventually, and have more control over what comes next in his life, “I want my whanau back together, and I want to stay out of prison with them.”

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