A teenager has died in Invercargill Prison two days before his sentencing.
The 19-year-old died on September 27.
Invercargill Prison director Daryl Tamati said its "staff made every effort to save him, however they were unable to revive him".
Other prisoners were being offered support, including cultural and Chaplain’s assistance, Mr Tamati said.
There was no indication the death was suspicious, he said.
On September 29, when the man was due to be sentenced, Judge Emma Smith made an order suppressing his name, which is due to be revisited on May 7.
The death was referred to the coroner to determine the cause and an investigation by the independent Corrections Office of the Inspectorate will also be carried out, Mr Tamati said.
