New Zealand suicide rates by ethnicity - why is Maori by far the highest FIDDAMAN ?

Figure 1. Provisional suicide rates by ethnicity per 100,000 population between July 2007 and June 2011 (n=2170)


Note: The per 100,000 population rate shown has been calculated following Statistics New Zealand annual population for the 2006 census year.

Ethnic groups have classified in the following groups: Maori, Pacific peoples, Asian, Other (including European, Not Elsewhere classified and New Zealand European).


source - Chief Coroner


Media statement sent on behalf of the Chief Coroner, Judge Neil MacLean.




26 August 2011 - Under embargo until 3pm Friday August 26 2011



The Chief Coroner Judge Neil MacLean has today released the latest provisional national suicide statistics drawn from information collected by the Ministry of Justice’s database.

This follows on from last year when this type of information was first made publically available by Judge MacLean.

In releasing the information Judge MacLean said that although Coroners were not experts in suicide prevention, the coronial system has a legal responsibility and a pivotal role to play in stimulating discussion on issues that could help the explanation and prevention of suicide in New Zealand.

“The suicide toll is a really concerning commentary on our society, and I believe anything we can do to aid more accurate information can only be for the better.

“I have suggested that there may be room for a gentle opening up of the restrictions on media reporting of suicide, but we need to consider all viewpoints – especially those of families – so we can make informed decisions.

“These statistics clearly show that what we have done in the past is not bringing the toll down so we must look for new solutions,” Judge MacLean said.