Suicides in NZ highest since records began

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Seventeen people in the Lakes District Health Board area took their own lives in the last year - with New Zealand recording the most suicides since records have been kept.

The Chief Coroner's provisional suicide statistics for 2016/17, released today, showed 606 people died by suicide in New Zealand - up from 579 the year before, which was the previous highest number.

The 17 recorded in the Lakes area - which includes Rotorua and Taupo - was down from the 21 people who died by suicide in 2015/16, but an increase from the 10 and 15 in the previous two years.

Seventeen was the average annual number of deaths by suicide in the Lakes area over the last 10 years. A total of 172 people in the Lakes area have died by suicide since 2007/08, when records began.

The rate of suicides in Lakes last year was 16.16 per 100,000 population - 28 per cent higher than the national rate of 12.64.

Chief Coroner Judge Marshall said New Zealand had much to do to turn around its stubbornly high rate of suicide.

"In the last year we've seen a lot of discussion about suicide and the incredible emotional toll it takes on those who are left behind. While acknowledging that people are taking their own lives is important, it is only part of the conversation about suicide in the community.

"What is equally important is our discussion around how we can prevent suicides and how everyone - family, friends and colleagues - is able to recognise someone at risk and ensure they get the professional help they need."

Forty-one people died by suicide in the Bay of Plenty area last year, the equal highest number since records began 10 years ago.

Where to get help:

• Lifeline: 0800 543 354 (available 24/7)
• Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)
• Youthline: 0800 376 633
• Kidsline: 0800 543 754 (available 24/7)
• Whatsup: 0800 942 8787 (Mon-Fri 1pm to 10pm. Sat-Sun 3pm-10pm)
• Depression helpline: 0800 111 757 (available 24/7)
• Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
• Samaritans 0800 726 666
• If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.