According to the latest statistics from the Ministry of Justice, 36 per cent of ex-prisoners are re-imprisoned within two years following their initial release.
Up to eight men who whakapapa to the North Shore area and have iwi, hapū, or whānau ties to the region will be eligible to reside at the two properties. This includes men aged 24 and under, who will be supported in one property while the other will accommodate men aged 25 and over.
Around-the-clock support
Residents will receive around-the-clock on-site support from Te Hā Oranga, an experienced Māori health and social service provider, assisting them in securing employment, improving their health, acquiring essential life skills, engaging with te ao Māori, and transitioning to long-term independent living.
Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua chief executive Antony Thompson says Te Hāpai Ō is a project that underscores their responsibility to care for their whānau and those residing within their iwi region.
“For over 30 years, we have delivered a variety of kaupapa Māori services that engage, empower, and support whānau in identifying and achieving their wellbeing aspirations.
“It matters not the duration of their stay.
“Whether they are here for 12 weeks or a year, what is paramount is that when our whānau depart this facility, they depart equipped with the tools and knowledge to reintegrate into everyday life.”
Thompson says Hāpai Ō will start in May.
