A young Whakatane man's rap song about suicide awareness, that he posted online in the hope of saving lives, has gone viral.

Paarani Apanui posted the video of himself rapping yesterday on Facebook. 

Since then it's been viewed more than 74,000 times and shared more than 3000 times.

"This is a song i wrote about suicide.. i know there's alot of people who can relate to this," Paarani writes.

"Please share around as this could potentially save someone's life.. Chur."

Paarani starts the video buy saying: "This is a waiata I wrote for suicide awareness".

In the rap, Paarani sings: "When it comes to suicide see I been there and I done that … I've already been through it, I'm a walking testimony.

"Even if you don't know me you can tell me your problems when you're down and feeling lonely, it's a long road ahead but we'll get through slowly."

The video met with a wave of positive comments. 

David Pokiha wrote: "Very talented mah bro mean kaupapa can feel those words through you bro meke azzzzz."

Manuhuia Kupe wrote: "Mint lyrics mate, hope people see that someones always there to help. Jahjah."

Maria Wooderson wrote: "Sharing it in Oz.Thankyou. It is a great thing you have done for others who need your words of wisdom".

Source: TVNZ.co.nz