Arts Access Aotearoa | Whakahauhau Katoa o Hanga is a national organisation that strives for a society where all people are able to participate in the arts, whatever their circumstances. We work to increase artistic opportunities for our key stakeholders: people with disabilities, disconnected youth, the elderly, mental health service users, disadvantaged migrants, refugees and prisoners. We are the key organisation in New Zealand advocating for the arts as a tool for change in prisons. We welcome your interest and about this website. You can also receive our monthly or visit our Facebook page. Read more...
29 June 2009 The gymnasium at Arohata Women’s Prison was cold at first but it soon warmed up when 30 members of the Wellington Community Choir started singing to prisoners and Corrections staff. View news story...
17 June 2009 Organisations providing artistic opportunities for people with disabilities are struggling as a result of recent government cuts to their funding and the downturn in grants available through philanthropic thrusts. View news story...
Arts and cultural activities can be a powerful tool in the rehabilitation of prisoners and in helping ex-offenders re-integrate with society. Arts Access Aotearoa, in partnership with the Department of Corrections, is developing a national arts strategy and individual arts plans for New Zealand prisons. Read some great stories about prison arts.
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