Prisoners across the country would be taking part in industry training and employment in prison kitchens this Christmas.

“Under the supervision of qualified instructors, prisoners get hands-on experience preparing the food served in prisons,” Custodial Services commissioner Leigh Marsh said.

“On Christmas Day they will be preparing the same basic and nutritious meal that has been served for a number of years. For lunch this will be roast chicken and gravy with potatoes, peas and carrots. In the evening they will be making sandwiches.

“Providing prisoners with opportunities to learn new skills helps them find employment after they’re released, supporting safe and successful reintegration into their communities.”

People in prison were also giving back to the community in the lead up to Christmas, including those participating in the sewing, quilts and crafts initiative at Auckland Region Women’s Corrections Facility.

The programme is run by The NZ Howard League volunteers.

Over the past year, women taking part have made quilts and knitted baby and children’s clothing and soft toys.

More than 400 items were being donated to families and children in need at Christmas time.

“These sorts of programmes build a sense of purpose, pride, and confidence, which can be an important part of making positive change,” Marsh said.

Corrections staff volunteer at Auckland City Mission – Te Tāpui Atawhai Food Bank. Photo / Corrections

Corrections staff up and down the country have also been supporting their local communities in the lead-up to Christmas, such as through volunteering for charities and collecting donations of food and toys for 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 said.

Christmas Day followed a similar structure and routine to any other day in prison, but throughout December there were special family days for children to visit their parents in prison and engage in festive activities such as crafts and games.

“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.”

Christmas menu

A vegetarian option of vegetable lasagna would be available for lunch.

The standard Christmas menu for 2025 will cost $11.10 per prisoner for the day. This includes the normal daily food cost of $9.80, plus $1.30 for the two Christmas mince tarts.