Convoy begins Sir Paul Holmes' final journey

Sir Paul Holmes has left his Hawke's Bay home in a moving ceremony, with a convoy of about seven cars now taking him to Auckland.

Before the convoy left Mana Estate near Hastings, Sir Paul's brother Ken came out to speak to media with Millie and Reuben Holmes and Lady Deborah.

"We appreciate the interest that's been shown in Paul's passing and (in) recognition for all that attention, we would just like to say thanks to the New Zealand public," Mr Holmes told several reporters gathered at the gate.

He said the family was "holding up well" and that Sir Paul's open casket will be available for private visits in Auckland until the funeral later this week.

They returned up driveway in a car and then came back down trailing the hearse with other family members.

Reuban and Millie were visibly upset, as Ngati Kahungungu performed a haka while the hearse progressed slowly along  the driveway.

The Holmes family are now following Sir Paul in convoy to Auckland.

The funeral will be held at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Auckland on Friday at 1pm.