The Various Occupations Of Prisoners – In Gaol (Press, 30 August 1957)

The annual report from the Department of Justice, published on 30 August 1957, sheds light on the diverse range of occupations undertaken by prisoners in New Zealand's correctional facilities. It highlights various aspects of prison labour, illustrating how inmate work contributes significantly to both self-sufficiency and government operations. The report indicates that the primary focus of prison labour is farming, with the department managing seven main farms that collectively generated a revenue of £117,505 for the year ending 31 March. Additional work in "other industries" brought in an extra £61,244. The Auckland prison's tailoring department is responsible for producing all clothing for inmates, along with certain uniforms for prison officers. They also handle shoe repairs and manufacture furniture for the Justice Department, which may soon extend to the Education Department as well. Auctioning ballot boxes for the upcoming November General Election is another task, with these being crafted in the tinsmith’s shop at Auckland prison. The report further discusses the activities of the New Plymouth prison, where prisoners create dental chair cushions for the Health Department, seat cushions for government offices, school envelopes for the Education Department, and even radio control parachutes for the Air Department. Printing demands for the Justice Department are largely met by the Wellington prison. Farming operations are notably extensive, with the Waikeria prison farm spanning roughly 3000 acres. It houses approximately 7400 sheep and five dairy herds, each consisting of about 110 cows. Additionally, Waikeria is involved in a long-term production trial using a breeding herd of 350 Black Poll cows in collaboration with the Ruakura animal research station. The honey rations for all institutions come from an apiary located on this farm. At the Tongariro prison farm, which is set to expand to an eventual size of 24,000 acres, roughly 4500 acres are currently dedicated to grassland. This farm sustains a flock of 7300 sheep and 1600 cattle, including around 120 dairy cows and 575 breeding cows. The Paparua prison farm, encompassing 1380 acres, features a Corriedale flock of 1300 ewes, along with operations involving cows, pigs, and a sizeable poultry unit, supplemented by various cropping activities. Overall, the report underscores the significant role that prison labour plays in supporting the New Zealand government's needs while providing inmates with opportunities to develop skills and contribute to society.

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