Moving tribes

Waata Keating, of Christchurch, was in the Octagon yesterday, with his 1990 Mazda B2000 ute, asking people to write on it the names of close family or friends who have committed suicide.

The project was inspired by the suicide of his brother, in 2017.

Mr Keating said the ute signing provided an opportunity for people to talk about their loved ones "and maybe get some closure".

"We don't talk enough. There's plenty of awareness, but real prevention starts when we all start talking about the real issues."

He said he had collected more than 500 names since he started the project in January.

Since then, he has travelled as far north as Waitangi and was now headed to Invercargill, before returning to Christchurch.

He plans to continue the project by visiting car shows and community events around the country.

Need help? 

Need to talk? 1737, free 24/7 phone and text

Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828-865 (0508 TAUTOKO)

Samaritans: 0800 726-666