The prison sitting on prime land on top of Wellington's Miramar Peninsula is closing temporarily.
Wellington Prison, formerly known as Mount Crawford Prison, is short of inmates during a "seasonal prison population trough."
The Department of Corrections said the prison is one of its oldest and smallest, accommodatingabout 100 prisoners, which is about the same number of prisoners in a large wing at other prisons.
Assistant Regional Manager Southern Liz Nielsen said the closure was temporary.
"We routinely open and close units when the prison population fluctuates. This enables us to make the best use of taxpayer dollars."
Staff will move to higher security units at Rimutaka Prison or to Arohata Prison.
The majority of prisoners are from outside the region and many will be moved to home regions.
"Because Wellington Prison is an old facility temporarily vacating the prison will enable maintenance work to be carried out more effectively and efficiently.
"Wellington Prison will be able to be opened at short notice should it be operationally necessary."
