Hundreds gather to farewell Harrison Mundy

Farewell to young Harrison Mundy who died last weekend. Photo by John Borren

Hundreds of people have gathered at Omanu Beach today to pay their respects to Harrison Mundy.

The 11-year-old Papamoa boy died last week after a public fight against cancer.

The service followed Harrison's funeral ceremony at Holy Trinity Church this afternoon, where 800 to 900 people attended.

The suits and formalities were exchanged for board shorts and jandals later this afternoon as friends and family gathered at an informal farewell send off at Omanu Beach Surf Life Saving Club, a club the Mundy family were well involved with.

Harrison's father Allan Mundy is well known for his contribution to surf lifesaving.

A reporter at the scene hundreds of people had gathered at the surf club.

About 50 paddle boards were lined up along the shore in preparation for a traditional sea paddle to mark Harrison's passing. A balloon release was held, with bright red, yellow, blue and green balloons released.

The reporter said the atmosphere was festive with people dressed casually and children running around playing games.