We've got a range of environments across our network. Here are some of main differences you'll find.
Security Levels
Low Security | High and Maximum Security |
Working in lower security, the staff to prisoner ratio is higher and prisoners have more freedom of movement. Prisoners have more opportunities to participate in a wider variety of rehabilitation and employment programmes. Corrections Officers play a vital role in supporting prisoners with these activities, including escorting them on guided or temporary releases outside the prison. | In Maximum and High Security there’s a smaller prisoner to Corrections Officer ratio. Prisoner movement is primarily escorted, closely monitored and restricted. |
Remand & Sentenced
Remand | Sentenced |
People on remand are awaiting their trial or sentencing and have different needs than those who have already been sentenced. For example, they may need to access defence lawyers, prepare for court appearances, and seek suitable accommodation for bail. Prisoners on remand interact in smaller groups and some may have complex needs to manage (for example, drug/substance abuse withdrawal). | In the sentenced environment, there are different classifications, ranging from minimum to maximum security. Corrections Officers have the opportunity to support people in prison to engage in rehabilitation and reintegration activities, such as employment, education and drug and alcohol treatment programmes. |
Gender
Men’s | Women’s |
Male prisoners make up the largest proportion of the total number of people sentenced to a term of imprisonment. Of the 18 prison sites around the country, 15 are men’s prisons. These range in size and offer different rehabilitation programmes and focus units. | Women can present with more complex needs as they are the primary parent/caregiver. Like the male prisons, our women’s prisons offer different rehabilitation programmes and focus units developed specifically to meet the needs of women, including Mothers with Babies units. |
Specialist Units
General units | Focus units |
Corrections Officers in general units work with prisoners from a diversity of backgrounds and may support them through a range of different employment, education, reintegration and rehabilitation programmes. | Focused units provide the opportunity to work in a more specialised area. Different units include drug and alcohol treatment units, youth units, Pacific units, Māori and Tikanga focused units and Special Treatment units. |