We asked our staff to share real stories, insights and advice on what it’s like working at the Department of Corrections.

What do you love the most about your job? What do you find the most challenging?

“Witnessing others' successful return to a normal life is a remarkable achievement and a goal that I believe is worth every attempt of effort. One of the most challenging aspects of our work is dealing with individuals who may have varying levels of risk. Therefore, it is crucial for us to be mentally, psychologically, and emotionally prepared to carry out our responsibilities with integrity and dignity.” – Probation Officer

“Each day presents new challenges and opportunities. Most challenging is to understand that sometimes even small shifts are still wins.” – Probation Officer

“Most of all, I enjoy seeing break throughs with prisoners. When they realise that there is more to life and that they have skills. The most challenging part is undoing 20 or 30 years of conditioning.” – Instructor

“He tangata he tangata he tangata. the people I work alongside all have stories and this helps me appreciate where I fit in the world. It helps me to appreciate family and allows me to love deeper and cherish the beautiful moments.

“Challenges can be how we perceive things. Managing oneself is important.” – Principal Corrections Officer

What do you wish the public would realise about working for Corrections and what advice do you have for new staff joining?

“It is essential for people to be aware of the work we do on the ground because, like me before I applied for this job, they may not fully comprehend the successful stories that emerge from challenging situations. People should understand how this profession can be a life-changer for many individuals. While we may not be able to change everyone, transforming even one person's life means we have added an extra layer of protection to our society. We have also contributed to the well-being and improved the lives of more individuals within their families and communities. Most importantly, we have not given up on someone who made a mistake in the past.” – Probation Officer

“There is more to know about the job than you think. It's not one size fits all. Keep an open mind.” – Probation Officer

“Advice I would give to new staff members is that you aren't going to be able to save the world. Lower your expectations of the effect you have in your role. Focus on building positive relationships. Learn ways to disconnect from work. Prioritise your self-care.”– Programme Facilitator

“We can't help everyone, or even force change on them. We can, however, present alternatives, build them up, and then when they make the decision to change, we must be prepared to give them the tools to change.” – Instructor

“Humble yourself and put yourself in other people’s shoes. Be considerate, kind, calm, helpful and prepared to answer lots of questions. Learn to say no and if you don’t know anything always ask other staff.” – Corrections Officer

For new staff, you are in this work for the long haul. Chip away by being the example, be the role model, be yourself and above all treat others the way you want to be treated. Never lose sight of who you are, your values or your beliefs and your integrity.” – Corrections Officer

“I would like NZ to see that we are doing our part in making sure that our patients are well and healthy enough, in both physical and mental wellbeing, to be re-integrated back to the community. For new staff, the kind of job we do as nurses may not be cut out for everyone, but if you stay long enough you will know that the challenges are worth it.” – Nurse

“For the public: We work hard to keep the public safe by supporting people we work to successfully reintegrate back into the communities and holding them to account if they do not. 

For new staff: Corrections is one of the largest government departments with career growth opportunities.” – Probation Officer

How does your mahi impact your community? How does it make you feel? 

“We keep the community safe, and I feel proud of that.” – Corrections Officer

“I see many great outcomes throughout my local community which is very satisfying. I have also many wonderful friendships with great people which is very rewarding.” – Community Work Supervisor

“Our health teams help people go into the community with a new outlook on life, eager to move forward. It makes me feel proud to have supported them in this life change.” – Nurse

“If we can link people into community agencies/groups they could have support for longer than their sentence runs. They may find a sense of purpose and identity within their community which hopefully will reduce their chances of offending. It’s always great to know a person will have support for as long as they need it. 

Our work also helps to keep the community safe through accountability. “- Probation Officer

“Mitigating and minimising harm or the risk of reoffending is a positive contribution to community. Building robust relationships with their whānau, considering Te Ao Māori view, working with integrity, tika and pono.” – Probation Officer