A pōwhiri to launch a new programme that will support Corrections in its aim to reduce reoffending was held at Tāmaki Makaurau last week.

Representatives from The Department of Corrections, Te Wānanga o Aotearoa and kaimahi and tauira on the inaugural level four New Zealand Certificate in Career Preparation attended the welcome.

Northern Region Department of Corrections Māori Services Manager James Hamiora says the goal is to reduce reoffending of all prisoners “by 25 per cent by the year 2017”.

Achieving this ambitious target could see 600 fewer people going back to prison and 4000 fewer being reconvicted on community offences.

“But more than anything else, achieving this goal will mean there are 18,500 fewer victims of crime.”

Mr Hamiora said his Corrections colleagues and the inaugural course tauira were “honoured in the highest possible way” at the pōwhiri.

“Through this learning venture, we have consolidated our relationship with Te Wānanga o Aotearoa even more.

“I see a better and brighter future for our respective organisations.”

Corrections course tutor Peter Veukiso says the first class was held on March 30 and went very well. “Our tauira are very bright, keen to learn and committed to securing the skills they need to pursue successful career pathways.”

There are 14 Māori, Pasifika and Indian tauira enrolled on the course (eight men and six women).

TWoA National Programme Manager for Vocations Glenda Taituha says the certificate will give our tauira life skills and open up employment opportunities.

“There is also an all-encompassing benefit for us all, who wish to live and bring our children up, in safer communities."

The 36-week Māngere-based course will be delivered in a similar fashion to the Police programme that is offered by Te Wānanga o Aotearoa and is now in its fifth year.

Initial discussions with Corrections started in 2012 when the department first approached the wānanga to look at ways to replicate the relationship it has with New Zealand Police and the Police Career Preparation programme.