A teenager is facing a possible prison sentence for helping his friend take his own life.
The 17 year-old has been charged with assisting suicide, after the body of his 16 year-old friend was found at a Christchurch playground in September.
The youth, who can't be named for legal reasons, has pleaded guilty to the charge.
The police summary of facts says the teen provided the equipment his friend used to take his own life - and helped him use it.
It also contains details about the planning involved in the offence, including the deceased's attempts to hire a hit man and source a firearm.
The teenager is facing up to 14 years in prison when he is sentenced in the Christchurch District Court.
Suicide prevention expert Merryn Statham says if a friend is experiencing such extreme distress that they are talking about suicide, it's an opportunity to help.
She says people should go with that person to seek help from a GP or professional support service.
Statham says the case is a tragedy from every perspective.
