Staff injured at Youth Facility in Rolleston after fight breaks out

Emergency services were called to Te Puna Wai Youth Justice Residence last night after a fight broke out.

Five youths have been identified as instigating the fight and five staff members and three young people have suffered injuries.

A St John Ambulance spokesman said they were notified of this incident at 8.27pm, sending one ambulance.

“It appears eight patients were assessed at the scene but the crew did not transport any of those to hospital.”

Chris Lynch Media requested a comment from Oranga Tamariki last night, but as time of publication had not responded by 1.30PM.

Minister for Children Karen Chhour said ““I have requested advice on what current procedures are in place for incidents like this and what more can be done to ensure serious young offenders are held to account for their actions.

“Under the previous government offenders assaulted staff and broke out of facilities and fast food was given to bribe them to stop. If people within youth justice facilities cause trouble they should expect to see real consequences for their actions.

“By restoring the value of right and wrong we will have better outcomes in youth justice facilities. This government is focussed on dealing with serious youth crime and young people must learn that bad and unlawful behaviour will not be tolerated.

“No staff member should go to work and feel unsafe. My thoughts go out to victims and their families who have been affected by this assault.”

Oranga Tamariki said it “Our staff were injured in this incident and have received treatment for those injuries.  We continue to support them.

 Ambulances treated injured staff and young people on site and one young person was taken to hospital for further assessment. He has since returned to the residence.”

The spokesperson said they reported this incident to police immediately and we expect they will complete an investigation. The respective family and whānau of the rangatahi involved have been advised.”

However a police spokesman said police didn’t attend last night.