Waitangi Tribunal hears Maori women's remand experiences

Three Māori women share their experiences with the justice system during the Waitangi Tribunal's inquiry into custodial remand. Kelly Hume, who spent 16 months on remand before being acquitted, highlights the far-reaching effects of remand on families and the lack of rehabilitation and reintegration support for those incarcerated. She emphasizes that many individuals are caught in a cycle of reoffending due to insufficient support upon release.

Awate Mita, Director of the National Youth and Justice Coalition, notes that many Māori are remanded not for significant risks but due to inadequate bail accommodation. She describes custodial remand as a costly and damaging form of social housing, particularly affecting Māori communities. Mita stresses the importance of leaving a record for future generations, as new prisons are being constructed, which disproportionately impact Māori.

Matilda Kahotea, founder of Ngā Kete Wānanga Solutions, discusses the support her organization provides to those on remand, reporting a low recidivism rate among those they assist. However, she points out the challenges faced due to a lack of resources, with a significant waiting list for their services. The inquiry continues, focusing on the systemic issues within the justice system affecting Māori.

Three wahine Maori have shared their experiences from both inside and outside the justice system - at the Waitangi Tribunal's priority inquiry into custodial remand this week. Maori women are overrepresented throughout the Justice system and remand is no exception - making up 15 percent of women in Aotearoa but almost 70 percent of women on remand. Maori News Journalist Pokere Paewai reports.