Providing resources consistent with our vision, values and principles is a principle function of this website.
Because we think it's important for the public to be more involved in its criminal justice system, we endeavour to provide credible information and resources to promote that.
“Justice Matters - the wellbeing of a nation is measured not by the absence of disorder, but by the presence of justice”
This speech was delivered by Kim Workman at the Normanby Hotel, Mt Eden on 22nd February 2013 at public event sponsored by the Third Space Trust. Kim explores the idea that “the wellbeing of a nation is measured not by the absence of disorder, but by the presence of justice. “ He suggests that the government’s recent positive results in reducing crime, and reducing reoffending rates, coupled with our global status as a safe and free nation, is out of kilter with the extent to which we imprison citizens – a rate which puts us alongside Gabon and Namibia. He argues that there is no relationship between the crime rate and the imprisonment rate, and that the latter is not about reducing crime – it is about the extent to which New Zealanders want to purchase and consume punishment. The way we run prisons is a reflection of our wider political and moral wellbeing – prisons that function as overly punitive, marginalising, controlling institutions, and in the absence of a moral centre, reflect the way government addresses the wider social policy agenda. He concludes by pointing to the promising changes that are taking place in Corrections, and the external support for change coming from the business, philanthropic, community and youth sectors. He concludes by considering the possibility of a change through the introduction of policies that are fair, just, and morally centred.
Read the speech
From Outlaw to Citizen - Making the transition from Prison in New Zealand
Author: Anne Opie
This book offers an insight on how ex-prisoners can regain their citizenship with societies support.
Read a book review by Dr Elizabeth Stanley, Institute of Criminology, Victoria University of Wellington
Download the flyer and order form
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Papers and Presentations
Heard Kim Workman speak at something and want a copy of his powerpoint? On this page you can see what we're discussing in public and download our papers and presentations.
The Speakers Bureau
This is a collection of people who know what they're talking about when it comes to crime and justice issues. What's more, they're willing to talk with you. Whether you're a community or church group, a sports club or just a group of people who want to know more about crime and justice in New Zealand, we have the speaker for you.
Truth in Justice
This Rethinking resource is dedicated to combatting inaccurate information about issues of crime and justice in New Zealand. In every edition we focus on something that has been innacurately presented to the public. We take a closer look at what the evidence says and try to paint a much clearer picture of what's really going on.
Rethinking Crime and Punishment's Submissions
We are big believers in democracy. When the government is engaging in consultation on issues that are relevant to the work we do, we like to get involved. On this page you will find a collection of our submissions to government.
All of the resources above are free - and there's more of them coming.
We also have other resources available through our shop. You may be interested in purchasing the CRIME AND PUNISHMENT Documentary on DVD which is available through our shop now at a cost of $30 plus shipping.
Briefings to incoming Ministers 2011
BIM’s are a valuable guide to what government departments intend for the next three years. They often trigger additional questions from the public, including requests under the Official Information Act.
Rethinking You Tube Channel
The Rethinking Crime and Punishment YouTube project aims to increase the level of discussion about New Zealand's criminal justice system. We are trying to bring the public informed, factual discussion on the key issues around crime and punishment.
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