Northland MP Winston Peters says the National government's economic policies are stifling small town New Zealand and it's affecting people's mental health.
Three weeks ago there were five instances of suspected suicides in Northland, all within a single week. The West Coast in the South Island is suffering from similar incidences.
LISTEN ABOVE: NZ First Leader Winston Peters speaks with Newstalk ZB
Winston Peters said while there are many reasons someone takes their own life, there's a link between economic prosperity and people's well-being that cannot be ignored.
He said resources are being stripped raw from smaller regions and processed overseas which is taking jobs and killing businesses in smaller Kiwi towns.
SEE ALSO:Â Fear in Far North and West Coast about next wave of suicides
Mr Peters said New Zealand has the primary production and raw timber, forestry and fishing materials available but not enough investment has gone into ensuring it's processed here.
He said the Government needs to step up and provide economic prosperity in provincial New Zealand, or the appalling suicide rates will continue.
"Far too little is happening in terms of regional development and sustainability in the provinces, and that has a consequence in a whole lot of areas. It also is showing itself in figures for youth suicide and serious social dislocation."
Mr Peters said support services and regional development need to be stepped up to attract new business.
Meanwhile, the Mental Health Foundation is asking for a national campaign detailing to people how to confront suicide.
CEO Shaun Robinson said the country needs a major promotion that gives people the tools and confidence to be able to ask someone if they're okay.
He said there's a lot more we could be doing before someone reaches the psychologist's office.
Mr Robinson said the campaign needs to be promoted to everyone so neighbours, colleagues, friends and family are educated with what to do when they expect the worse.
He said suicide isn't inevitable, even though many people are affected by issues of mental health the vast majority do recover and there is hope.
"The situation is optimistic not pessimistic if people are able to reach out... It is definitely possible to move through times of difficulty and crisis."
Are you affected by an issue in this article? Here's where to get help:
Lifeline - 0800 543 354
Suicide Crisis Helpline (open 24/7) - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
Samaritans - 0800 726 666
Youthline (open 24/7) - 0800 376 633. Text 234 for free between 8am and midnight, or email [email protected].
0800 WHATSUP (0800 9428 787), Open between 1pm and 10pm on weekdays and from 3pm to 10pm on weekends. Online chat is available from 7pm to 10pm every day at www.whatsup.co.nz.
Healthline - 0800 611 116
For more information about support and services available to you, contact the Mental Health Foundation's free Resource and Information Service on 09 623 4812 during office hours or email [email protected]
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