The Parole Board says it has observed an attitude change in the mother of murdered Rotorua toddler Nia Glassie.
The three-year-old girl died in 2007 after prolonged abuse which included being spun in a tumble drier.
Five people were jailed after Nia Glassie's death, including her mother Lisa Kuka who is serving a nine-year term for manslaughter.
Last year, the Parole Board said Kuka was understandably reluctant to open up.
Following a psychologist's report, the Board now says she has agreed to undergo one-on-one counselling and attend the drug treatment unit.
Judge Anne Kiernan says, for now, Kuka remains a risk, and cannot be released but should be congratulated for her improved attitude.
