A home to house recently released prisoners has opened in Tauranga to help reintegrate them back into the community.
'Whare 4 Freedom' is modeled on Te Tuinga Whanau's support services for homelessness.
CEO of Te Tuinga Tommy Wilson says the project was born out of a desperate need in Tauranga to have a home for inmates to live in once they left prison.
"Today's all about reconnecting these fellas who come out of prison," he says.
Mr Wilson says the men will stay for up to six months while accessing support services to help with health, budgeting and employment.
A former inmate who will act as mentor says "it's amazing" to have an opportunity and place to offer support.
There are currently two former prisoners living at the property.
All men must be low risk,
They will be monitored and have a curfew.
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