A prisoner has died in what is believed to be a suicide at Rimutaka Prison in Upper Hutt.
Acting prison director George Massingham said there was "no indication that his death is suspicious" - a signal that no one else was involved.
"I can confirm that a man in custody has died this morning at Rimutaka Prison," he said.
"Our staff made every effort to save him. There is no indication that his death is suspicious.
"Police have been advised and will notify the man's next of kin. Our thoughts are with the man's family and friends.