Consequences Await Young Offenders in Auckland Rooftop Incident

Children’s Minister Karen Chhour vows accountability for youth involved in rooftop standoff at Korowai Manaaki residence.

Children’s Minister Karen Chhour has confirmed that the young offenders involved in last night’s rooftop incident at Auckland’s Korowai Manaaki youth justice residence will face consequences for their actions.

At approximately 6:30 p.m., 13 young people gained access to the roof of the Oranga Tamariki facility. The standoff lasted until late this morning when the final two individuals came down from the roof.

“I have been assured by Oranga Tamariki that no demands were made by the young people, and there was no negotiation. This behaviour is totally unacceptable, and there will be consequences for their actions," Chhour stated.

She commended the efforts of Oranga Tamariki staff, as well as support from Police, Corrections, Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ), and Health NZ, for handling the situation effectively. At no time did any of the youth leave the premises, and there was no threat to public safety.

Rooftop Incidents and Recent Reforms

This incident marks the first rooftop standoff at an Oranga Tamariki facility in 2024, a stark contrast to 15 similar incidents in 2023. Chhour emphasized that significant reforms have been implemented at youth justice residences since the release of the Independent External Rapid Review of Oranga Tamariki Secure Residences by former Police Commissioner Mike Bush in September of last year.

The reforms have focused on improving safety and security, with measures including "target hardening" to prevent rooftop access, reinforced infrastructure like window frames, and more secure ceiling fittings. Enhanced recruitment, training, and assessment processes for staff have also been prioritized to ensure better management of the facilities.

Preventing Future Incidents

Minister Chhour noted that an assessment is already underway to determine how this latest incident occurred and to explore additional measures to prevent similar events in the future.

“The work we have done so far has improved the safety and security of these residences, but we are committed to doing even more to prevent these incidents from happening again," Chhour added.

The Minister reaffirmed that while progress has been made, ongoing improvements are essential to ensure the safety of both the young offenders and the staff at youth justice residences.