The Korowai Manaaki facility in Wiri. Photo: RNZ / Philippa Tolley
A teenager is being treated in hospital after being injured with hot water and sugar at a youth justice facility in Auckland.
The concoction is colloquially known as "prison napalm" for its tendency to stick to skin and cause serious burns.
Oranga Tamariki confirmed that one of its young residents threw the mixture at another teen's face at the Korowai Manaaki facility in Wiri on Sunday evening.
"Police and ambulance attended the scene, and a young person was taken to hospital," a spokesperson said.
"For privacy reasons we are unable to comment on the nature of the injuries."
Oranga Tamariki said the incident was "incredibly distressing" and staff were actively supporting the victim and his family.
"Young people deserve the right to feel safe in our residences and we are investigating what occurred in this situation and how it could have been prevented," they said.
Police said a 15-year-old boy was before the Manukau Youth Court following the assault.
A spokesperson said he had been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.