Saturday marked the ninth World Suicide Prevention Day, and the Life Matters Suicide Prevention Trust held its annual event, which sought to raise awareness of suicide and suicide prevention.
Beforehand, trust manager Corinda Taylor said the event would be full of "love and kindness" and she hoped to bring those affected in the community together to reflect and remember loved ones.
"Each of them [the candles] represents somebody’s loved one who has taken their own life, so it’s quite significant," she said.
In the year to June 30, 2021, 607 people are suspected to have died by suicide in New Zealand. The 2022 figures have not yet been released.
This year’s event had a theme of "creating hope through action", Ms Taylor said.
There was a remembrance tree dotted with keepsakes, mementos and photographs of loved ones, which those grieving had been encouraged to bring.
"This event is a reminder to people they are not alone — friendships have formed at these events because there’s a similar journey there, and a similar pain."
A team of peer supporters were at the event to help anyone who might feel upset or vulnerable.
"It’s another opportunity to connect and tell people you are not alone," Ms Taylor said.
People from all different walks of life and areas of expertise spoke at the event, including University of Otago senior lecturer, head of behavioural science and Te Whatu Ora clinical psychologist Dr Kobus du Plooy; Life Matters peer supporter Jo Paxie; police southern district prevention manager Damion Rangitutia; Fulton Hogan health and safety professional Andy Westgate; and Mates in Construction field officer Evan Teiti.
There were performances from local musicians and a chance for everyone to share their experiences, as each person brought their own perspective and understanding to the table, Ms Taylor said.
"We have to celebrate our lives, because life is so fragile."
Dunedin wedding and funeral celebrant Melanie Kerr had been invited to be the MC for the event.
She said she hoped it would "spread light in the darkness".
Working as as both a marriage and funeral celebrant, she had seen first-hand the devastation of families affected by suicide, so when she was approached she knew she had to be part of the event.
"Anything I can do to ease that stress, help people see light in the darkness and maybe shine a bit of light on the matter," she said.
Need help?
Suicide Prevention Helpline: 0508-828-865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Youthline: 0800376-633; or free text 234
Samaritans: 0800726-666
If it is an emergency or if you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
