Politicians are jostling to dominate the "tough on crime" narrative, and some business leaders are demanding tougher punishments.
Yet numerous reports from government agencies, academics, civil society groups, inmates, police, and even from the Judges sending people to prison have warned that prison sentences lead to crime, and longer sentences lead to even more.
So while retribution might feel good - for a time - it could create even more victims in the long-term; especially if rehabilitation efforts are ineffective.
University of Auckland professor Tracey McIntosh's recent research focused on incarceration and issues pertaining to poverty, inequality and social justice.
Professor McIntosh spoke to Māni Dunlop about the risks of reactionary policy and tough on crime rhetoric.
