Newshub can reveal a phsychologist working at Rimutaka Prison has been put on leave after allegations she had a sexual relationship with an inmate and supplied the prisoner with methamphetamine.
Life behind the wire is supposed to be a mundane and strictly controlled environment - but the allegations make it clear that's not always the case.
The allegation that an inmate and staff member had sex and dealt meth has prompted swift action from prison officials.
"Any allegation of this nature will be taken exceptionally seriously," said Neil Beales, Corrections' chief custodial officer.
"The right procedures were taken, they were taken very quickly. As soon as the prison director became aware of the allegation they raised it with the integrity assurance team."
A source has told Newshub a psychologist is alleged to have had sexual relations with an inmate, who's also a gang member.
The employee is accused of bringing methamphetamine into Rimutaka Prison for the inmate and helping him with drug sales on the outside.
The relationship is believed to have gone on for "several months". The employee assessed inmates for risks, information considered by the parole board.
"Whenever we find that a member of staff has in fact breached their code of conduct or committed an offence and broken the law in prison, it is exceptionally disappointing," said Beales.
"It's disappointing to all the other staff who are working alongside them trying to do a good day's work."
Rimutaka Prison is currently embroiled in a separate corruption investigation linked to money laundering and drug smuggling called Operation Portia.
At least four Corrections staff members have been stood down for "alleged serious misconduct". Police are yet to make any arrests.
But this latest incident is not linked. A review into that is ongoing. CCTV is being searched.
And if the allegations are proven, Corrections say it could be referred to police.
