A house built by Northland prisoners is about to provide a Whangarei family in need a new home.
The house was built by inmates at Northland Regional Corrections Facility in partnership with Habitat for Humanity and was lifted out of the prison to be delivered on Friday.
It is the third such house built by Northland prisoners.
Corrections Minister Judith Collins says in helping build the house, the inmates have learned valuable skills which can be used in future employment.
It includes experience in gibbing walls, using power tools, and complying with health and safety regulations.
"Working on a real project prepares them for a career in construction, while also helping a Northland family in need. Supporting prisoners into stable employment is key to improving the lives not only of offenders, but also of their families and the community," Ms Collins says.
Construction on the house started in May 2015, and the 10 prisoners who worked on it were part of the prison's carpentry programme.
The plumbing and electrics will be done by private contractors.
The house is going to Dana Phillips, whose family was chosen from a shortlist of 12 families who applied.
The inmates are working toward their level 3 certificate in Building Construction and Allied Trade Skills from Weltec.
Newshub.
