Corrections investigates after Rimutaka Prison attack video leaked online
Monday 12 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 3 reports · updated In this story Department of Corrections
The Department of Corrections is investigating how CCTV footage of a group attack on an inmate at Rimutaka Prison was leaked online. The video shows several prisoners hitting and kicking a man. Five people have been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
Key facts
4 facts
- The attack took place at Rimutaka Prison in Upper Hutt on 23 September last year.
- Five individuals have been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
- The victim returned to prison on 27 September after receiving hospital treatment.
- Corrections is investigating the online release of the CCTV footage.
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
The Department of Corrections is investigating how CCTV footage of a group attack at Rimutaka Prison in Upper Hutt was leaked online. The video shows several inmates hitting, kicking, and stomping a man until he falls to the ground. One attacker in the footage is seen using a crutch, which was intended for a pre-existing injury, as a weapon.
The assault occurred on 23 September last year. Following the incident, the victim was treated by onsite health staff before being transferred to a hospital for further care. He returned to the prison four days later on 27 September.
Five people have been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Deputy commissioner of men’s prisons Neil Beales stated that Corrections officers entered the yard to control the situation and assist the victim after the footage ended.
Beales noted that prisons can be volatile environments where prisoners may behave unpredictably. He said, “We are constantly working to ensure our prisons provide the safest environment possible for staff and prisoners”.
How it developed
- Mon 12 Oct, 5:13pmA follow-up statement from Neil Beales confirmed the victim was treated by onsite health staff and returned to prison four days later.
Compiled from reports by Stuff and NZ Herald.