Our History
Supporting Clients Since 1877
Prisoners Aid and Rehabilitation Services (PARS) has a long and proud history in Aotearoa New Zealand, beginning in Dunedin in 1877 with the founding of the Patients' and Prisoners' Aid Society of Otago. Other centres such as Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch followed around the turn of the century, each operating independently.
Driven by the vision, compassion, and determination of early volunteers, these societies laid the foundation for what would become a nationwide support network for prisoners and their whānau.
By the 1950s, groups were active across the country some under the PARS banner, others working informally. Recognising the growing need, new societies were formed, including Palmerston North in 1955 and Whanganui in 1957.
Significant progress came with the support of Dr John Robson, Secretary of Justice, and Hon. R.J. Hanan, Minister of Justice. With their backing, PARS secured central government funding, and by 1959, a national body (NZPARS) was formed to distribute funds and standardise services across the country.
Initial government grants totalled 7,950 pounds, supporting aid, administration, and salaries across several centres. Local branches were still expected to raise funds through subscriptions, donations, and local grants.
In 1967, changes to the funding model helped ensure better accountability, with staged payments and stricter reporting requirements. This financial structure supported the continued growth and stability of local societies.
Whanganui PARS flourished thanks to dedicated local leadership. Founding member David Wilson was involved as Patron. With strong governance, Whanganui weathered national changes, including the dissolution of NZPARS in 2010 and the short-lived Prisoners Aid & Rehabilitation Trust that followed.
Thanks to the efforts of Sandra Terewi (former National President) and board of trustees, Whanganui continues to serve the local community and prison system with strength and integrity.
Since 2017, Whanganui PARS also operates a branch in Tūrangi.
With strong roots, experienced leadership, and a deep commitment to justice and rehabilitation, Whanganui PARS proudly continues a legacy that began nearly 150 years ago.
Our Values
Whanganui / Tūrangi PARS recognises the importance of Māori as Tangata Whenua. The principles of the Treaty of Waitangi are of primary importance when providing services in New Zealand/Aotearoa.
Empowerment: Focusing on empowering current and former prisoners to reintegrate into society successfully through support, education, and skill-building programs.
Advocacy: Advocating for the rights and needs of prisoners, ensuring fair treatment, access to resources, and opportunities for rehabilitation.
Integrity: Operating with honesty, transparency, and ethical standards in all interactions, ensuring trust from stakeholders including clients, donors, and the community.
Collaboration: Working collaboratively with stakeholders such as government agencies, nonprofits, and community organisations to leverage resources and expertise for better outcomes.
Respect: Respecting the dignity and worth of everyone, regardless of their past circumstances, and promoting a non-judgmental approach in service delivery.
Innovation: Embracing innovative approaches and best practices in prisoner rehabilitation, adapting to evolving needs and challenges in the criminal justice system.
Accountability: Being accountable to clients, funders, and the public for outcomes and impact, with a commitment to continuous improvement and evaluation.
Community Focus: Recognising the importance of community support and involvement in successful prisoner re-entry, fostering partnerships and initiatives that benefit both individuals and the broader community.
