Corrections said the facility, commonly known as Ngāwha Prison, has just over 600 prisoners and each receives three meals aday, including Christmas Day.
On Christmas Day they will be preparing the same basic and nutritious meal, under the supervision of qualified instructors, that has been served for a number of years, said commissioner for custodial services, Leigh Marsh.
“For lunch this will be roast chicken and gravy with potatoes, peas and carrots. In the evening, they will be making sandwiches.”
The meals are prepared by prisoners in the on-site kitchen, providing them with skills and work experience which can be beneficial to their reintegration after they are released from prison.
Different meals are prepared for prisoners with special dietary requirements. Ingredients are supplied by Bidfood, which is contracted to supply all prisons managed by Corrections across the country.
Christmas Day follows a similar structure and routine to any other day in prison, but throughout December, there are special family days for children to visit their parents in prison and engage in festive activities such as crafts and games.
“Our incredible staff keep Corrections operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Even on Christmas Day, they will be working hard to keep the public safe, and I’d like to thank each and every one of them for their commitment,” Marsh said.
“This can be a tough time of year for prisoners and their families, so where possible, we enable opportunities for prisoners to share special moments with their families.”
Marsh said people in prison are also giving back to the community in the lead up to Christmas, including those participating in the sewing, quilts and crafts initiative at Auckland Region Women’s Corrections Facility.
Items hand-crafted by prisoners at Auckland Region Women’s Corrections Facility to be donated to families and children in need at Christmas time
The programme is run by Howard League volunteers. Over the past year, women taking part have made quilts and knitted baby and children’s clothing and soft toys. More than 400 items are being donated to families and children in need this Christmas.
“These sorts of programmes build a sense of purpose, pride, and confidence, which can be an important part of making positive change.”
Corrections staff up and down the country have also been supporting their local communities in the lead-up to Christmas, such as through volunteering for charities and collecting donations of food and toys for families in need.
