The Bay of Plenty township of Murupara, which is still coping with the suspected gang-related killings of two teenagers, aims to set up a restorative justice programme to help troubled young people.
Jordan Herewini and Kaine Lewis were killed in two separate incidents in 2009.
Murupara health service Te Ika Whenua Hauora is one of the organisations determined to help young people.
Health promotions leader Jacob Te Kurapa says it wants to set up a programme to prevent first-time offenders committing more crime.
He says the programme would centre on young mentors helping offenders.
The Ministry of Justice has welcomed the idea and looks forward to learning more about the concept.
