Manawatu Prison was commissioned in 1979 as a male Youth Institution with a maximum muster of 115 prisoners. Since 1985 the Camp Road complex has been a prison for male prisoners of all ages and over the years its total operating muster has more than doubled.
In the 80s the B block was extended and 20 cell huts constructed in the central compound area. In the 90s cell accommodation was added to C Block and a 60-bed unit was established. The prison’s operating muster is now 290.
While there has been a significant increase in prisoner numbers at the site, the Receiving Office and Health Unit have continued to operate in the Administration block with relatively little development of either area. With the growth of the prison in terms of prisoner numbers and throughput, considerable pressure was placed upon Receiving Office and Health activities.
Plans were prepared in 2004 for a new facility that would provide an improved layout and much needed space for these two critical areas of operation. The new purpose built facility provides staff with a hugely improved working environment in which to better manage prisoners.
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ISSN 1178-8453