Lange farewelled at Onehunga ceremony

Former Prime Minister David Lange has been farewelled by family and close friends at a private ceremony near his Mangere Bridge home.

About 70 people attended the service yesterday at the Onehunga Presbyterian Church. A Cook Islands and Samoan choir performed, as he had requested.

The service was led by celebrant Ron O'Grady, who said: "It was a gentle farewell for a very great man."

A public celebration of his life will be held on Saturday at Ericsson Stadium, led by friend and entertainer Gary McCormick.