One of the youths is seen at the time of the incident. Photo: RNZ / Tom Kitchin
The youth unit at Hawke's Bay Regional Prison is still not ready to be open, two months after a protest caused significant damage.
On 1 August, six teenagers climbed onto the roof of the youth unit and remained there for about 24 hours.
Neil Beales Photo: RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly
In a statement, Department of Corrections chief custodial officer Neil Beales said the damage meant it was "still not appropriate or safe to accommodate prisoners" until it had been repaired.
"Due to the unique security and operating features of our prison environment, assessments are ongoing. At this stage, the exact cost and timeframe of any repairs is yet to be determined."
At the time of the incident, 27 youth offenders were housed in the youth unit. Most of the youths who were there have been moved to other sites across the country.
"We are ensuring any men moved continue to maintain contact with family and friends through phone calls, AVL [audio-visual link] where available, and postal, courier and e-mail communication in line with our legally privileged correspondence/ documents processes," Beales said.
Police charged the six teenagers and one will appear in the Hamilton District Court for sentencing next month.