Waikune Prison was minimum security prison opened in 1921. It sits, isolated and alone, on a deserted and overgrown few acres, along a lonely strip of highway, and has been left abandoned and in decay since 1986. This derelict prison camp located in a remote area below a looming Mt Ruapehu, was closed due to lack of funding to upgrade. The inmates worked in various capacities, including doing the laundry for the nearby Grand Chateau Hotel, a ski resort in a World Heritage Park.
An incredible place that we were honoured to have gained permission from the resident caretaker, for access to explore and photo document all the structures in this long forgotten piece of New Zealand history.
Please do not trespass on private properties. Always seek permission before entering any derelict or abandoned locations. Also, be aware of your surroundings and look out for any danger areas or hazards. Always investigate safely.
hi who did you contact to explore this prison
hi, The caretaker lives on the property. He’s the one to speak to.
I worked at Waikune Prison as a prison officer from 1974 until 1986.
I wish would research properly.
The chapel is not haunted
Hi, could you give me the contact details of the caretaker ? i want to have a look in this prison and get some historic documents. Thanks.
I worked at Waikune as an officer from 1974 until it closed in 1986. If I can help you with any correct info please feel free to cotact me.
A friend of mine was a caretaker back in the 90’s
Hey, how do you contact the caretaker?
When I was a kid in the 70’s, when we went on holidays, we always went past this prison either on train or by car. Everytime we went past there was always someone or a team playing rugby on the field there.
my dad spent time in this prison I would love to have copy of it,s history
Sadly all gone now. My father was a Prison Officer here and we lived in the village. One of the last family living there when the Prison was closed down. I remember some of these buildings from when I was child/teenager. I feel sad when I drive past the site.