Despite a drop in overall crime rates in New Zealand, Maori imprisonment rates continue to rise. [1] Within the demographic rangatahi Maori (young Maori) make up a sizable proportion of the population of our jails. High rates of rangatahi Maori imprisonment is a concerning social issue for a number of reasons. Firstly it represents a grave loss of potential for those imprisoned to contribute to and participate in both te ao Maori and New Zealand society. In terms of health and well-being the costs of imprisonment impact on the individual but also extend to their surrounding whanau. In addition to this, the financial cost of locking people away from society impacts upon New Zealand in its entirety which is particularly concerning at a time of global financial insecurity and national financial prudence.
With New Zealand’s aging population the responsibility of long-term economic and social sustainability and growth will fall increasingly upon young peoples shoulders. With the increasing youthfulness of the Maori population rangatahi Maori will play a key role in the future of New Zealand.
Disproportionately high rates of Maori imprisonment are holding back the potential of Maori and non-Maori futures in New Zealand. To date policy in this area has failed to satisfactorily resolve the increasing rates of Maori imprisonment.
With this in mind this website will culminate in three recommendations:
1. More research and resources should be directed toward understanding and resolving high rangatahi Maori imprisonment rates.
2. Fresh approaches are required that should draw on Maori cultural values.
3. Maori designed and delivered initiatives should continue to be funded.
[1] ‘Addressing the drivers of crime for Maori report’ 2011. Te Puni Kokiri found at www.tpk.govt.nz. Accessed 3/10/2011