Dissappointment that a Wellington woman's prison isn't using its mother and baby unit

An inspection of Arohata Prison found misunderstandings about entry criteria have led to the unit not being used at all.

Inspectors say health and safety concerns at the unit would have to be addressed to accommodate children older than nine months.

The inspectors' report also notes concerns that the unit isn't suited for prisoners who are mentally unwell and at risk of self-harm.