Photo: Getty Images/iStockphotoNew Zealand's "stubbornly high rate" of suicide has continued to climb and reached a record 606 deaths in the past year. The latest suicide figures are the highest since records were first recorded nine years ago. But while the suicide rate per 100,000 people was higher than last year at 12.64 compared to 12.33, it was similar to the figure of 12.65 in the 2010-2011 year. Maori continue to have the highest suicide rate of 21.73 per 100,000 people with 130 deaths this year, the same as two 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.

Source: Otago Daily Times August 28, 2017 00:45 UTC