28 January 1952 – 6 September 2023
28 January 1952 – 6 September 2023
Peter John O'Hara
On September 6th, 2023, aged 71 years.
Peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.
Cherished husband and mate of Carol for 53 years.
Much loved dad of Nikki, Jarad, Kelly and their families.
A service was held at the North Shore Memorial Park, 235 Schnapper Road, Albany on Wednesday, 13th at 1:00pm.
The aftermatch was at Eden Park, in the Players Lounge, West Stand.
A video recording of the service is available for viewing below..
Funeral service held at North Shore Memorial Park Crematorium Chapel
Dear Carol, Nikki, Jarad, Kelly and families Thanks for sharing this beautiful send-off for Pete and sending much love to you all. I haven’t seen any of you for 40 odd years so it was pretty special to hear all that Pete’s done over the years, see the wonderful family that he and Carol created and hear how much he was loved. (I already knew through his book how much he loved you all back!) Pete was my boss at NZPA in London in the 80s and he and Carol were always great hosts at their Wimbledon house. He made journalism exciting for me; he was a tenacious reporter, mischievous, fiery, fun and hugely welcoming to all my mates who trailed through our office on their OEs – they loved him. Always there for support on a tough story, and always up for a drink and a laugh. RIP OH, best boss ever xx
Dear Carol and family, it was so good to watch the service and be with you in spirit even though we weren’t able to be there in person. Our loving sympathy and thoughts are with you all.
Dear Carol and family. You gave Peter such a beautiful farewell. You - and especially the grandchildren - provided a fitting tribute to a man who lived life to the full but who always had time for others. Peter was loved by family and friends. He was respected and admired by the many colleagues he worked with. I was privileged to be among them. RIP my friend.
Peter was one of the real gentlemen of journalism. Fair minded, old school values and focused on people. Learnt plenty from him at NZPA and Fairfax and it was a privilege and pleasure to know him. Good man. RIP Peter.
Dear Carol, Kelly, Jarad, Nikki and all the O’Hara fam, sending you lots of love during this difficult time. Peter was a very special person and loved so much by everyone. One of my favourite Mangawhai memories as a kid is Peter catching jars of tadpoles from the golf course for me - he knew what an animal lover I was! They would take up residence in salad bowls at our batch (I’m sure mum was thrilled) before the drive home to Auckland. Thinking of you all. Rest easy Peter Xx
It's been an absolute privilege to have known Peter as not only a Cousin but as a mate. Over the past several years Peter has endured many health struggles, but he always remained optimistic and fearless when confronted with the challenges that lied ahead. We would like to express our heartfelt sympathies to Carol, Nikki, Jarad and Kelly, Peter will be sorely missed. RIP Peter. Margaret, Debbie, Robert, Michael & Julie O’Hara
I loved working with Peter O'Hara at the Waikato Times, a true newspaper man and not bad at golf either! Recently I read his book and was spell bound by his story. Of particular interest is the period when Fairfax took over at INL and reading what was actually happening behind the scenes. If I hadn't realised it before, reading it made me realise what an honourable man Peter was and an outstanding "people" person. He genuinely cared about those working for the company. I played at several corporate golf days with both Peter and Carol - they loved their golf and the gatherings in the 19th hole afterwards. A top bloke who I will always value knowing and working with. RIP Peter xx Love to Carol and the family. Mary Anne.
Dear Carol and family My deep condolences at this sad time. I had the pleasure of working for Peter for a long time in the media game. He was wise, empathetic, fun and incredibly fair. I and many others at Fairfax learned a lot from him. RIP Peter.
Our prayers and thoughts to Carol and family with the passing of Peter. With fondest affection, Lew and Virginia x
Deepest condolences to Carol and the O'Hara family. Peter was a true gentleman and a very much respected colleague on the Board of NZ Football. He also distinguished himself in helping lead the host city bidding process for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2015. Peter always had time to impart wisdom, offer his expertise and advice and encourage everyone around him with his sunny disposition. Rest well now Peter. The staff and Board of NZ Football
Kia ora Carol I was so sorry to hear about your loss. Peter was a brilliant journalist, editor and boss and I really enjoyed my time working with him. I learned a lot from Peter. He was also a great person, with a strong sense of fairness and decency and a roguish twinkle in his eye. I always wondered if he was as bad at golf as he made out… I know how sad you will all be and also how much there is to celebrate in Peter’s successful life. He lived well. X Paul and Paula
Our heartfelt sympathy to Carol and family, who have all been such wonderful supporters of Peter in his, seemingly endless, battle. It's certain he lived so much longer because of your strength and love, and that of his close mates. While we haven't been in that category, we've long admired both Peter and Carol. And we're grateful for the fun times we've had together, both on and off the golf course. Peter, your suffering is now over mate. Knowing you, the last thing you'd seek is enduring sorrow - especially from your staunch wife, who will remain a true hero in our eyes. Rest in peace now, and fly high!! Much love and thoughts to all O'Haras at this sad time, Shane and Richard
How to honour you Peter and Carol. You are one. You compliment each other so well. You are a pair that fit so snug. My heart aches for you Carol in your loss. All of your children, their partners and their children are so cherished by you both and you will help each other through these days ahead. And as the loss gently softens you will smile and laugh remembering the so many special moments you have all shared. It was always so evident the love Peter had for you all. And for us, our family we are so happy to have been welcomed into our friendship with Peter. A totally lovely person who engaged with people of all walks of life with genuine interest. And what fun to be with too. Really really sad to say goodbye will not be the same without you Peter 💕
Dear Carol and the O'Hara family So sad to hear of Peter's passing. He was such a talented and congenial man and admired by many including my husband Mike. Many happy memories of the days when we were all together. Love from all the Robsons. Marjie
Peter and Carol; From your days with Upper Hutt Squash, The Leader, your posting to London and further adventures you embarked on you influenced my life in so many ways. Your dry wit, encyclopedic sports knowledge, wonderful generosity and hospitality are remembered with a smile. That tribute photo is a very good choice. Cheers, Mate.
I have so many wonderful, happy memories of spending time with Peter and Carol with my late husband Colin. Thinking of you Carol. Love from Debbie
Rangitikei College days. What a great schoolmate to have through those crazy years. Clever, witty, rebellious ( without harm) and able to craft a speech/conversation formal or casual in such a special way. Peter was destined to achieve and take on the world. He did all of that with energy, with style. A special friend - regret we at times drifted apart. No fault no blame - c'est la vie.
Funeral service held at North Shore Memorial Park Crematorium Chapel

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