The death of a prisoner at Hawke's Bay Regional Prison yesterday is being treated as "unexplained" by police.
Police were called at around 12.45pm on Sunday to the facility west of Hastings to reports of a man who had died "following an incident".
Detective Inspector Martin James confirmed an investigation was underway.
Hawke's Bay Regional Prison acting general manager Shannin Mortensen said Corrections staff made every effort to save him but he was unable to be revived.
He said the man was found in his cell and was not double-bunked.
"Our thoughts are with those impacted. Other men in the unit and staff are being provided with support, including access to chaplains and cultural support where requested."
The matter had been referred to police who had contacted the man's next of kin, he added.
All deaths in prison were subject to an internal incident review, as well as investigations by the independent Corrections Inspectorate and the coroner.
"The Inspectorate and coroner both complete a robust independent assessment of each incident providing commentary and recommendations regarding the care and treatment of deceased individuals," Mortensen said.
"In addition, the coroner confirms the cause of death."
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