This paper focuses on prison history & recent implementation of a progressive operations/management program known as “He Ara Hou” (Maori for a new way). Positive results reported: higher administrative efficiency, decreased internal disorder, a competent stable workforce, & a human product whose sense of self-worth & charity have not been destroyed by years of frustration, hatred & fear. Since 1989, the rate of prison suicides of 19-24 year olds has fallen 40% to 1.2 per 100,000. (15 refs.)