Broadcasting great Sir Paul Holmes has been farewelled in Auckland.

Up to a thousand people gathered at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Parnell for this afternoon's service.

The mourners were addressed by Dean Jo Kelly-Moore.

"We have come together to remember before God the life of Sir Paul Scott Holmes and to give thanks for the impact of his life on us all. For his commitment to this country, for the love and care that he offered others and for his inspiration to so many people."

Sir Paul Holmes' children each read out a quote.

Millie's was from her dad.

"Water can cut through iron...find out who you are. Know who you are. Know your strengths and weaknesses. Be proud of your strengths and laugh at your weaknesses."

And Reuben read a quote from Bill Hicks, which compared life to a ride in an amusement park.

"Some people have been on the ride for a long time and they begin to question, is this real? Or is this just a ride? Those people remember and they come back to us and they say don't worry. Don't ever be afraid, ever, because it's just a ride."

Mike Williams, former Labour Party president, and a long time friend told those gathered Sir Paul was blessed with three girls in his lifetime.

His first wife Hinemoa, their daughter Millie, and his widow Deborah.

"To Hinemoa, it was a rough ride we know, but the two of you exchanged and nurtured two precious gifts, Millie and Reuben."

Mike Williams also said Sir Paul campaigned tirelessly against methamphetamine, with latest statistics show the epidemic is waning - something Mike Williams says Paul had a lot to do with.

Former Newstalk ZB boss Bill Francis, describes a discussion the pair had when Paul missed work after a big night out.

"We had a brief discussion and he said 'so I 'll see you tomorrow morning'. No I said, 'you need to come into work and see me so we can more fully discuss this'. 'I'll tell you what', said Paul, 'what say we meet at the French Cafe for lunch, my shout'. What can I say, totally incorrigible."

Holmes' long-time friend, Peter Beaven, says his creative flare was evident when they were university students together.

"Paul formed a late night review called 'Knackers'. They used to come round to our flat to polish up their scripts. I don't think I ever laughed more in my life than during those visits. The show started with Paul walking on stage dressed only in his underpants, to read the late night news in briefs."

The thoughts of his friends and colleagues were best expressed by fellow broadcaster John Hawkesby.

"Go well, Sir Paul. Rest easy. God knows you've earned it. Thanks for the memories and the big big heart. So long you clever, charming, courageous, cheeky little whitey."