Law changes expected to boost prison population over next decade (opens original article in a new tab)

New Zealand's prison population is projected to increase by 35% over the next decade, with a significant rise in remand prisoners and more serious cases in court, according to a Ministry of Justice report. The government attributes this to tough-on-crime policies, while opposition critics argue it is costly and ineffective.

• Prison population expected to rise 35% by 2036, from 11,240 to 15,200.
• Remand population to increase 48% to 6,900 by 2036, with longer remand times.
• Fewer total court cases but more serious cases due to policy changes and increased prosecution.