Corrections staff block the entrance to the Otago Corrections Facility. Photo: Nick Brook
The remand prisoner climbed on the roof of a unit at Otago Corrections Facility about 12.45pm.
OCF general manager Dave Miller said in a statement the area was contained and within the secure perimeter of the prison grounds.
"There is no threat to the wider security of the prison and no threat to public safety.
"Staff responded immediately to contain the incident and are currently talking to the man," he said.
A spokeswoman for the Department of Corrections said at 9.30pm that the prisoner remained on the roof.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews were at the jail as a precaution.
There was no indication anybody had been injured.
Police had offered assistance to Corrections if required, a spokesman said.
- Allied Media
