Christchurch Prison is opening its doors to the public on 20 November, offering an exclusive inside look at life behind the razor wire.
Christchurch Prison houses up to 780 remand and sentenced male inmates, with security classifications that range from minimum to high security.
Site Manager Paul Rushton says the open day is an opportunity to dispel the myths about life inside.
"For most people, their idea of what prison life is about comes from television and the movies. The reality is very different.
"Coming to the open day is a chance to see what being in prison is really like. It's also a chance to find out about the range of programmes and services we provide to assist inmates' rehabilitation and reintegration into the community."
The main prison was built in 1925. Since then, three hut complexes have been added, along with a specialist unit for young male offenders, a self-care unit and the Paparua Remand Centre, built in 1999 to replace Addington Prison.
Prison staff will be conducting tours through many of these facilities, as well as the Prison's engineering workshop, chapel and kitchen. "Narco" the Prison Drug dog will also be on hand to check for illegal drugs and demonstrate his detection skills.
The need to maintain the security of the Prison during the open day means people who want to attend must first complete a visitor application form and give their consent for a criminal records check. Forms are available by contacting Paul Rushton on 349 0936, or by email to openday@corrections.govt.nz. Completed forms must be returned to the Prison by 12 November.
Visitors to the open day will be admitted from 11am, with the last group leaving the gatehouse to start their tour no later than 1.45pm. Tours will take around one hour.