New youth justice residence for Rotorua

Earthworks will begin on a new youth justice residence on Parekaranga Trust land south of Rotorua next month.  A soil turning ceremony attended by Trust members and representatives from Child, Youth and Family was held recently to mark this next phase of development. 

Trust Chairman James Warbrick said it was marvellous that the project was getting under way. 

“It is all about building bridges and linking with the community,” he said. 

While the residence is a national facility, many of the young people will come from the Waikato and Bay of Plenty area, keeping them closer to family and helping with their transition back into the community. 

Once complete, the facility will be made up of eight separate buildings, including residential units, an administration block, and buildings where young people can continue their education and take part in cultural activates.  There will also be courtyard areas and a playing field for sports and recreation.  

The youth justice residence will provide accommodation for up to 40 young people and employ approximately 80 full time staff.  Building begins early next year, and is expected to be complete by the end of 2010.