A coroner has found the death of an Oamaru man in 2015 to be self-inflicted.
Wayne John Ross (46), was found dead at an Arun St cake shop he co-owned with his wife, Kelly Ross, on June 13, 2015.
An inquest into the death of Mr Ross, presided over by Coroner Sue Johnson, of Christchurch, started at the Oamaru District Court yesterday and concluded this morning.
After hearing evidence from several witnesses over the course of the inquest, she determined the there was no suspicious circumstances around the death of Mr Ross.
"I am satisfied on the evidence that Mr Ross' death was self-inflicted,'' she told members of the Ross family and supporters at the inquest.
"I realise how difficult it has been for you to relive the circumstances of Wayne's death.''
Speaking after the inquest, Mrs Ross told the Otago Daily Times the process had been difficult for the family of Mr Ross to endure.
"He was a family man, loved his kids and his family. I just don't wish this on anyone.''
Mr Ross' father, John Ross, declined to comment.
Coroner Johnson made an order that no evidence heard at the inquest over the two days be reported further by media.
Her inquiry into the death of Mr Ross would continue, she said.
Where to get help
• Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor
• Depression Helpline, phone 0800 111 757 to talk to a trained counsellor
• Healthline, phone 0800 611 116, if you feel unwell or sick, or need advice
• Samaritans, phone 0800 726 666, if you need confidential emotional support 24/7
• Youthline, phone 0800 376 633, free text 234, or email talk@youthline.co.nz
• What’s Up, phone 0800 942 8787, for 5 to 18-year-olds. Monday to Friday, noon to 11pm, weekends 3pm to 11pm. Online chat 5pm to 10pm, 7 days, at www.whatsup.co.nz
• OUTLine NZ, phone 0800 688 5463 (0800 OUTLINE), support for sexuality or gender-identity issues. Helpline available 6pm to 9pm daily.
• Lifeline, phone 0800 543 354, or text HELP to 4357/.
• In an emergency, or if you feel you or someone else is at risk, phone 111.