The blue uniform replaces the green custodial uniform worn since 1976 and consists of a blue polo shirt and cargo pants as the core items for staff conducting unit-based duties. A blue, traditional-style uniform, including a collared shirt, tie and tailored trousers, is used by staff in more public roles such as conducting court duties and escorts.
The cost of the old uniform was about $1600 for male officers and $1700 for female officers, while the new uniform costs about $1500 for both male and female staff, taking the cost of the new uniforms to about $4.8 million for the 3200 staff members.
Otago Corrections Facility prison manager Reti Pearse said the new uniform had been well received by all staff.
"They're especially looking forward to having utility belts and wet weather gear, which reflects the nature of their demanding and challenging work."
Mr Pearse particularly liked the koru design on the shoulders of the formal jacket, as it gave it a New Zealand touch.
Corrections officer Mark Duncan said the old uniforms were not designed for the range of roles staff now performed.
"The new uniforms are more professional. You can have a lot more movement and uniforms are easier to care for."
Fellow corrections officer Lynn Kain said the female uniforms now fitted properly and felt more comfortable.
"These uniforms look much better - the old uniforms weren't really designed for women. The best change are the shirts, because the old ones had heaps of buttons and did not fit well, while the new polo shirts are really comfortable."
