Paul Holmes 'kicking back a bit'

Paul Holmes has denied an internet rumour that he has weeks to live. Photo / Norrie Montgomery

Veteran broadcaster Paul Holmes is scaling back his work, to spend more time at his Hawkes Bay property and "kicking back a bit''.

Holmes, who was the original breakfast host on Newstalk ZB when it began in 1987, today announced he was reducing his work with the station.

He would continue as a contributor.

The 62-year-old underwent open-heart surgery in June and was put on life support in an induced coma following the surgery.

Earlier this month he was re-admitted to hospital with a bladder infection.

He also hosts TVNZ's Q & A political programme.

"I love what I do but there's also much more to life than working, as Deborah (his wife) regularly points out to me. We love our Hawkes Bay home and property and I'm looking forward to enjoying the farm some more and kicking back a bit.''

He was always tuned into the news, and he said it would be nice to let someone else have that pressure.

"When you have a few health scares it makes you think, and it provides an opportunity for perspective.''