The Children's Minister says new military academies for youth offenders will be different from bootcamps which have been tried in the past.

Karen Chhour says the Government plans to have a pilot programme operating by mid-year, led by Oranga Tamariki.

Chhour says a group of experts and several community organisations have been brought in to put a well-rounded program together.

"It focuses on rehabilitation and a trauma-informed approach as well, alongside having that military approach." 

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