Getting staff to work in prisons isn't the problem - but keeping them on board is

The Chief Ombudsman has slammed Auckland South Corrections Facility over their staffing shortages, causing prisoners to spend longer time locked in their cells.

He also says their rehabilitation needs are not being met.

Corrections Association president Alan Whitley says prison work needs to be made more attractive as a career, rather than a short-term job option.

He says it's the same situation in private and public prisons - they can get the staff but they need to retain them.