A proud man who loved to be the centre of attention, Peter Paul would have been shocked at the crowd he drew to bid him farewell.
About 1000 people turned out to the Great Lake Centre yesterday to pay tribute to the Taupo personality who was killed in a motorcycle crash on Friday night.
The 47-year-old, who was born in Rotorua, owned three Taupo bars and was a big supporter of local sporting talent.
Motorcyclists from around the country and car enthusiasts escorted Mr Paul's coffin from his home to the service, which was attended by a huge array of people, from judges to politicians and mates.
Police Superintendent and relative Wally Haumaha, who was the master of ceremonies, said there had been many stories told over the past few days of Mr Paul's "fast and furious life".