21 May 2025
C196563
Matua Kahurangi
[FYI request #30843 email] Tēnā koe Matua
Thank you for your email of 28 April 2025 to the Department of Corrections – Ara Poutama
Aotearoa, requesting information about asylum seekers in prison. Your request has been
considered under the Official Information Act 1982 (OIA).
I will address your requests in turn. You requested:
•
The number of asylum seekers currently imprisoned in New Zealand.
Corrections considers that this request is more closely aligned with the functions of the
Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE). Consequently, I have transferred
this part of your request to them for their consideration and direct response in accordance
with section 14 of the OIA.
You can expect a response from MBIE in due course.
•
The number of individuals who have been granted asylum (i.e., recognised as
refugees or protected persons) who are currently imprisoned in New Zealand.
Corrections does not hold a record of the asylum status of prisoners. Accordingly, this part
of your request is refused under section 18(g) of the OIA, as the information requested is
not held by Corrections, and we have no grounds for believing that it is held by another
agency or more closely connected with the functions of another agency. Please note,
Corrections also sought to transfer this part of your request to MBIE, who advised
Corrections that they are also unable to respond and do not hold the data requested.
Please note that this response may be published on Corrections’ website. Typically,
responses are published quarterly or as otherwise determined. Your personal information
including name and contact details will be removed for publication.
NATIONAL OFFICE, WELLINGTON
Mayfair House, 44 – 52 The Terrace, Wellington, 6011, Private Box 1206, Wellington 6140,
Phone +64 4 460 3000
www.corrections.govt.nz
2
I hope this information is helpful. I encourage you to raise any concerns about this response
with Corrections. Alternatively, you are advised of your right to raise any concerns with the
Office of the Ombudsman. Contact details are: Office of the Ombudsman, PO Box 10152,
Wellington 6143.
Ngā mihi
Jeremy Lythgoe
Manager Ministerial Services
People and Capability
