Mrs Barry said Mr Barry was a devoted family man who was passionate and political with strong opinions.
"We are a very close family and are in contact a lot. He always liked to get together and he loved his family."
"He was passionate about rural issues, with time spent as a stock buyer and farmer, but was also involved in urban issues, playing a large role in the establishment of the Rotorua International Stadium," she said.
"In all, he did not have an agenda, he just wanted to help."
Former mayor Grahame Hall also described the selfless approach Mr Barry had towards his work as a councillor.
"He was an exceptional councillor and was right up front and on the button with issues.
"He did his homework and he was a great support person. He was also instrumental in getting the international stadium grandstand off the ground - he did a huge amount of work on that during his time on council.
"He was honest to the day, hardworking and a person you could always rely on ... I was very fortunate to have him on council during my term."
Mr Hall said Mr Barry effected change when he was the regional representative on the Wool Board.
"During my term as president of Federated Farmers, Peter was hugely instrumental in making sure the farmers got the best deal in the meat and wool sections and on the Wool Board.
"He had a great respect from all the farmers that he represented, and did an exceptionally great job. He was a man's man, he loved his rugby and he did like the odd beer or two. He was a really good guy to depend on."
Mr Barry's funeral will be held at Osborne's Funeral Home Chapel tomorrow at 1pm.
