Record turnout for new Sir Paul Holmes

One hundred guests and a large media contingent are expected to descend on Hawke's Bay today to celebrate veteran broadcaster, journalist and author Sir Paul Holmes' official institution to knighthood.

An afternoon investiture ceremony at his Poukawa home will commence at 1.30pm in front of the invited guests, with nearly 30 journalists from around the country reporting back to New Zealanders.

The Haumoana-born, Karamu High School old boy was made a knight in the New Year's honours for his services to broadcasting and the community.

More than 30 years in the broadcasting industry saw him become one of the country's most well-known personalities, and he also championed several public causes including the Paralympics and the fight against methamphetamine.

Governor-General, Lieutenant-General Sir Jerry Mateparae, will travel to Hawkes Bay for the ceremony that has secured the biggest-ever media presence for an investiture - despite only being for one person, a Government House spokesman said.

It was believed the ceremony was moved forward to accommodate for Sir Holmes' health concerns. He has been battling prostate cancer and a heart ailment, undergoing operations for both conditions last year.

Follow Hawke's Bay Today's coverage of the ceremony throughout the day at www.hbtoday.co.nz