An inmate released from Tongariro/Rangipo Prison last month was back in the hands of the law hours later when he was caught buying cannabis on the way home.
Corrections Department investigations discovered the prisoner was setting up the drug deal while in jail.
"This information was passed on to police and the ex-prisoner and his dealer were arrested during a cannabis transaction and charged with drug related offences," Corrections regional intelligence manager Dave Alty said.
"Obviously the prisoner was very keen for a high after being inside but you would think he would have at least waited to make contact with his dealer once he got out.
"In addition, I am pretty sure the dealer isn't going to be too happy."
The department said the prisoner had reappeared in court over the incident and had received a non-custodial sentence.
