Funeral for comedian Jon Gadsby to be held in Christchurch on Friday

Jon Gadsby died last Saturday night aged 62, just two months after his family revealed he was battling cancer. Photo / LinkedIn

Legendary New Zealand comedian and actor Jon Gadsby will be farewelled on Friday in Christchurch.

The funnyman died last Saturday night aged 62, just two months after his family revealed he was battling cancer.

His funeral will take place on Friday at Lamb and Hayward in Burnside, Christchurch, at 11am.

Family spokeswoman Tracey Chambers described Gadsby as "a man of great talent, huge experience and had a great heart".

He would be remembered for his sense of humour and ability to spin a great story, she said, and would be sorely missed by friends and family.

Gadsby was born in the UK and completed his school education in Invercargill after his family moved to New Zealand.

His first foray into TV was alongside long-time collaborator David McPhail on A Week of It.

The pair then developed the hit comedy McPhail and Gadsby.Gadsby was also a noted author, writing and co-writing 45 children's books.

In 1992, he was awarded the Queen's Service Medal for services to broadcasting.

In October, his family revealed he was battling cancer.

In a statement his family said: "Jon and his family are grateful for the excellent care he is receiving from the medical profession and for the good wishes and prayers from the community.

"His family respectfully request privacy so they can focus on Jon and his treatment - and supporting him through this."