1. Prisoner employment and vocational training
Prisoners in a MFU have access to the same employment activities and vocational training as prisoners in other units. The primary goal here is to assist prisoners to acquire a positive work ethic, and good work habits.
Maori Focus Unit Managers should work to establish good relationships with CIE staff, and vice versa, to secure a range of employment opportunities for Maori Focus Unit prisoners.
2. Constructive activities
Unit staff and prisoners should seek to develop a range of activities with which unstructured time can be filled. However, all such activities should be consistent with the overall kaupapa of the unit.
3. Temporary releases
The unit actively maintains linkages with Maori providers and iwi support in the community, and prisoners who meet the criteria for temporary release are encouraged to take up opportunities in the community. All such activities should be relevant to the sentence plans of the prisoner, assisting in their rehabilitation and reintegration.
4. Powhiri /Visits
It is to be expected that MFUs will receive a wide range of visitors (including international dignitaries). The kaupapa of the unit requires that those who have not previously entered the unit participate in a formal welcome. This includes prisoners and staff who are new to the unit.
When the MFU is required to conduct powhiri for visitors, the kawa of the prison’s rohe is paramount. All prisoners involved with the powhiri should be informed and made aware of the applicable kawa or protocols of that region. Adherence to the Department’s Maori Cultural Practices held on the Department’s Premises policy is required.
5. Food gathering, preparation and sharing
Food gathering, preparation and sharing may occur on whanau days and when there are major powhiri or other special events within the unit. The learning obtained in this area stands prisoners in good stead to take on the role of being a good provider in the community. Arrangements will be different in each Unit dependent upon the available facilities.
On these occasions, appropriately skilled prisoners who can be released as either part of a work gang or on temporary release to participate in the gathering of food. However, it is imperative that health and safety, food safety and hygiene standards are maintained, along with an understanding of cultural safety relating to these activities (obtained through local kaumatua).
Where kitchen facilities are used in the course of food preparation, these need to comply with health department regulations.
