New Zealand Prisons’ Unique Christmas Tradition
This year, prisoners in New Zealand will take an active role in preparing their own Christmas meals, a move that aims to enhance their culinary skills while also fostering a sense of community. “Under the supervision of qualified instructors, prisoners get hands-on experience preparing the food served in prisons,” said Leigh Marsh, Commissioner of Custodial Services.
The traditional Christmas lunch served in these facilities includes a classic roast chicken with gravy, potatoes, peas, and carrots, while vegetarian options feature lasagne. The evening meal offers a choice between roast beef, relish salad sandwiches, or tuna mayo salad sandwiches, with falafel and coleslaw or egg mayo and salad available for vegetarians. As dessert, inmates will enjoy two Christmas mince pies.
The total cost of providing these Christmas meals is $11.10 per prisoner, an increase from the usual daily food cost of $9.80, with an additional $1.30 allocated specifically for the mince pies. This initiative not only nourishes inmates physically but also serves to engage them in meaningful activities that can positively influence their rehabilitation.
Family Connections in the Holiday Season
Christmas can be a challenging time for both inmates and their families. Marsh emphasized the importance of maintaining family connections during this period, stating, “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.” While Christmas Day adheres to the regular prison schedule, special family days have been organized throughout December, allowing children of inmates to visit and engage in festive activities.
Moreover, this program is designed not only to provide traditional meals but also to facilitate personal growth and emotional support for inmates. These initiatives aim to remind them of their responsibilities toward their families while serving time and preparing for reintegration into society.
Giving Back to the Community
In a spirit of generosity, inmates will also participate in community service by creating and donating more than 400 handmade goods for families in need during the holiday season. This includes quilts, knitted baby and children’s clothing, and soft toys. These items are products of year-long efforts in collaboration with the NZ Howard League volunteers.
Marsh commented on the significance of such programs, saying, “These sorts of programmes build a sense of purpose, pride, and confidence, which can be an important part of making positive change.” The initiative shines a light on the potential for transformation within the prison system, allowing inmates to contribute positively to society.
Additionally, staff members from correctional facilities are stepping up, volunteering their own time at food banks and charities to assist families in need. “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 added.
This year’s Christmas initiative in New Zealand’s prisons illustrates a larger effort toward rehabilitation and community engagement, aiming to make a positive impact not only on inmates but also in the wider community. For more information on government initiatives related to prison reform in New Zealand, visit Corrections NZ.
