24512 (2026). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Minister of Corrections

24512 (2026). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Minister of Corrections: What changes, if any, are expected, forecast, planned, or assumed to be made to prisoner unlock hours during 2026/27, broken down by prison site, unit where applicable, expected timing, current unlock hours, and expected unlock hours?

Hon Mark Mitchell: I am advised that a change is planned at Northland Region Corrections Facility where unlock hours will be extended in some units, which could result in increased unlocked time for some prisoners. Actual unlock hours for any specific prisoner will vary depending on unit operations, however the move will allow for two additional hours in which prisoners may be unlocked. This is planned for August 2026. I am further advised that prisons are dynamic environments and unlock hours may change on an ad hoc basis in response to incidents or other events which require prisoners to be returned to their cells for safety and security reasons.