Bring Secure Email-to-Email Communication to New Zealand Prisons

 We are calling on the New Zealand Government and the New Zealand Department of Corrections to introduce a secure monitored email-to-email communication system within New Zealand prisons, similar to the successful eMates system already operating throughout Australian correctional facilities.

This proposal is NOT for unrestricted internet access.

Under systems such as Australia’s eMates:

• approved family members send secure emails
• all communication is screened and monitored
• prisoners receive messages through secure prison systems
• prisoners hand write their responses
• handwritten replies are scanned and emailed back through approved “Right to Reply” services

This creates a secure, controlled, and fully traceable communication system already proven to work safely overseas.

Why This Matters

Strong family connection during incarceration is internationally recognised as one of the most important factors in reducing reoffending and supporting rehabilitation.

While prison phone calls in New Zealand are free, and currently so are incoming emails, communication can still be affected by:

• lockdowns
• restricted phone access
• missed calls
• short conversations
• postal delays
• difficulties for children, elderly family members, and overseas whānau

A secure email-to-email system would:

• provide faster and more reliable communication especially for children, elderly family members, or people with ill health
• preserve the personal value of handwritten prisoner responses
• support children and families maintaining connection
• reduce isolation and strengthen emotional wellbeing
• assist reintegration and rehabilitation outcomes
• improve communication for families overseas or who work shift work 

Benefits for Corrections and Prison Staff

A secure monitored messaging system would also:

• reduce pressure on staff processing large volumes of physical mail
• reduce contraband risks associated with posted mail
• decrease manual handling and administrative workload
• provide fully monitored and traceable communication records
• create safer and more efficient communication management within prisons
• minimise implementation costs to Corrections

Importantly, systems such as eMates already operate successfully under strict security controls overseas.

At No Cost to the Taxpayer

Similar to the Australian model, this system could operate through a user-pays structure where approved family members purchase message credits and “Right to Reply” services.

This would create a largely self-funded communication system while reducing operational pressures associated with physical mail handling.

What We Are Asking For:

 

• a two-year North Island pilot programme
• implementation across all 10 North Island prisons
• monitored and approved communication only
• handwritten prisoner responses only
• independent evaluation of rehabilitation and operational outcomes

Australia and the United Kingdom already operate secure prisoner messaging systems successfully.

New Zealand can too.

Please sign and share this petition to support safer rehabilitation, stronger whānau connection, and modern communication reform within New Zealand prisons.