Recognising the involvement Mr Chadwick had in Te Hunga Roia Maori o Aotearoa, the Maori Law Society current presidents Opher Cassidy and Tavake Afeake had come from Auckland to pay their respects.
Mr Afeake, who co-founded the society with Mr Chadwick, spoke fondly of him to the family.
Mr Morrison said he spoke mostly of the times they had spent in the Chadwicks' house formulating all those plans.
"For Steve after the shock of what happened on Friday, the comments that have come in, seeing all of the familiar faces has been a comfort," Mr Morrison said.
"This has been a wonderful time to share in her grief, but celebrate his life. The house is one of sadness, but also of remembrance."
Te Arawa's paramount marae, Te Papaiouru, is being prepared for the arrival of Mr Chadwick's body at 9am tomorrow. "The marae has been readied for a large arrival, significant groups from John's background in the East Coast and Wanganui and parliamentary colleagues of Steve will be arriving," Mr Morrison said.
"Everyone is welcome to come and share time with John, a warm welcome is extended to all."
The funeral service will take place at Te Papaiouru Marae at 11am on Tuesday. A private cremation will follow.