New Zealand heath professionals are calling for more research after a Herald investigation linked around 40 suicides to the Canterbury earthquakes.

The revelations come after analysing over 200 coronial findings and talking to dozens of family members.

It found 40 people battled with earthquake-related stress and paranoia before killing themselves between 2010 and 2014 but Christchurch's suicide rates didn't increase.

Eight were battling EQC and insurance providers, four lived within one kilometre of each other, and two died in a murder-suicide pact. 

In most cases the quakes weren't the sole cause of the deaths, with many suffering long-term mental health problems. 

Some had attempted suicide before while some had never had mental health issues.

Judge Neil MacLean believes it's a topic worth investigating further, but by who is an issue.

"The current chief coroner may have some views, or the Suicide Mortality Review Committee might be an appropriate organisation."

Judge MacLean said it would be a lot of work to collate observations and comments by coroners.

"It would have to be quite a bit of work to collate the comments and observations made by various coroners, in various findings, and to pull it all together and see whether any conclusions or or recommendations could be worked out."

Canterbury District Health Board chief executive David Meates said suicide is a complex phenomenon and in most cases the causes are a combination of life stresses.

He said there’s no solid evidence so far that supports this conclusion, but does indicate perhaps more research to explore the issue is needed.

In other countries research shows suicide rates spike in the wake of natural disasters.

The Ministry of Health has no intention at this stage, of launching an investigation.

Are you affected by an issues in this article? Here's where to get help:
• Lifeline: 0800 543 354 (available 24/7)
• Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)
• Youth services: (06) 3555 906
• Youthline: 0800 376 633
• Kidsline: 0800 543 754 (4pm to 6pm weekdays)
• Whatsup: 0800 942 8787 (1pm to 11pm)
• The Word
• Depression helpline: 0800 111 757 (available 24/7)
• Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
• CASPER Suicide Prevention
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.