Te Uepū Hāpai i te Ora was tasked with leading public discussion to develop proposals that address the failures of our criminal justice system.

Over the past year we have listened to many voices, canvassed a broad range of ideas, spoken to experts and reviewed other reports in justice and related sectors. Our June 2019 report He Waka Roimata reflected what we heard during the many hui we held around New Zealand. People told us they have no confidence in the current criminal justice system. They want urgent transformative change.

We have heard the call from New Zealanders for a new vision: A justice system that treats all people with humanity, dignity, respect and compassion; recognises the mana inherent in all people and communities; and enables the restoration of that mana whenever it has been diminished.

In this report we set out values and principles which can provide that direction. They are values that emphasise the inherent worth of all people and communities, the connections between us, the importance of maintaining and restoring balance in all relationships, and of caring for and supporting one another.

Turuki! Turuki! outlines our recommendations for transformation of Aotearoa New Zealand’s justice system, underpinned by these strong values, and new structures and processes. Under this transformative justice approach individuals, families, communities, government and wider society share responsibility for preventing, responding to, and healing the harms that occur. The justice system must support fairness and equity, accountability, and restoration. It must also address the socio-economic conditions that contribute to offending and reoffending. To that end, changes are also needed in New Zealand’s health, education, housing and social services.