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Whare Oranga Ake opening a national milestone

Associate Corrections Minister Dr Pita Sharples says the openings, today and tomorrow, of the first two Whare Oranga Ake, are a milestone for New Zealand’s approach to law and order.

“I believe this unique institution is going to revolutionise our society, and reform the way New Zealand, and the world, reintegrates offenders into our communities,” said Dr Sharples.

The ceremonial start to construction of a new rehabilitation unit at Hawkes Bay Prison marks a philosphical shift in corrections policy and practice, according to Associate Corrections Minister Dr Pita Sharples.

Unlike most prisons, which are built to keep people apart, Dr Sharples said the new Whare Oranga Ake is based on Maori philosophies, and marks a new beginning.

“In Maori tradition, building a house is about building family and community.” he said.

Mihi:
- Mana whenua: Ngati Poporo o Ngati Kahungunu
- Local government officials
- Ray Smith, new CEO of Corrections, and senior managers
- Service providers who support the kaupapa (to be announced)

This is a very significant day for all of us here.
Turning a sod marks a new beginning and this moment has particular significance.

In Maori tradition, building a house is all about building family and community.

More prisoners are undertaking job training and literacy and numeracy education than ever before, Corrections Minister Judith Collins and Associate Minister of Corrections Dr Pita Sharples said tod

Budget funding for two new Whare Oranga Ake - reintegration units for prisoners - will help to reduce re-offending and re-imprisonment rates, Associate Corrections Minister Pita Sharples says.

Associate Corrections Minister Dr Pita Sharples has this afternoon paid tribute to Corrections Officer Jason Palmer who died on the weekend while doing his job.

Maori Affairs Minister Dr Pita Sharples says Labour is clumsy in opposition and suprisingly unclear about how multiple Ministerial roles work.

A ministerial meeting on the drivers of crime next month will be co-hosted by Justice Minister Simon Power and Associate Corrections Minister Dr Pita Sharples.