Mother’s Day in Arohata Prison

‘‘Mother’s Day ... is tough for parents behind bars and their children on the outside.’’

Mothers behind bars got to celebrate Mother’s Day last weekend.

Arohata Prison held a special celebration on Sunday with face-painting and arts and crafts available for children visiting their parents.

The prison’s visiting room was decorated for the occasion and a Mother’s Day banner made by the prisoners took pride of place.

Preparing for the activities was a collaborative effort with Rimutaka Men’s Prison, where prisoners working towards qualifications in printing put their skills to good use.

Prisoners in Rimutaka’s Print Shop designed and printed Mother’s Day colouring-in cards that mothers and children could complete together.

Prisoners and their visitors enjoyed cake baked by prisoners studying hospitality.

Mathew Allen, assistant prison director of Arohata and Rimutaka prisons, said the day went well.

‘‘Mother’s Day, like Christmas Day, Father’s Day and birthdays, is tough for parents behind bars and their children on the outside,’’ he said.

About 20,000 children have a parent in prison in New Zealand.