'I loved him': Bryce’s emotional tribute to his mate Dai Henwood

The Morning Rumble's Bryce Casey has paid an incredibly moving tribute to his close mate, beloved Kiwi comedian Dai Henwood, following his death at the age of 48.

Dai passed away on Tuesday (November 10), after a six-year battle with bowel cancer, surrounded by his family at Auckland Hospital.

Fighting back tears, Bryce opened up about just how difficult this tribute was going to be.

"I've done a few of these tributes for legends that have left us," he began.

"I wasn't actually friends with Tom Petty or Taylor Hawkins or Chris Cornell or Ozzy Osbourne... Now this one's different."

"Dai Henwood was a good mate and I loved him."

Bryce went on to share some of the things he'll miss most about Dai, from their hilariously inappropriate voice messages to playing golf, talking sport and having him as a guest on The Morning Rumble countless times over the years.

"I'll miss being able to tell people that you're my mate, and that you were every bit as cool and funny as what people thought you seemed."

He also reflected on Dai's extraordinary strength throughout his cancer battle, and the way he turned something so devastating into an opportunity to help others.

"You created awareness. You educated us, you showed endless empathy, and you saved other New Zealand families from having to have your reality."

Alongside his incredible work raising awareness, Bryce celebrated Dai's legendary comedy career, from his early stand-up days and cult TV shows to 7 Days, Family Feud, LEGO Masters and Dancing with the Stars.

But above all, it was the man behind the laughs that Bryce wanted people to remember.

"You were joy. You were kind, genuine, sincere, loyal. And you were funny, man."

"You were a terrific husband and a really proud dad."

Bryce finished by sharing a quote from Dai about how he hoped to be remembered: "That I had a good vibe and I was just a Kiwi trying to have a good time."

"You left some sort of legacy, man."

"On behalf of the Rumble and The Rock listeners, thanks for making us laugh and for sharing your gift with us."

"The world's a little less funny today."

Our thoughts and love are with Dai's wife Jo, their children Charlie and Lucy, his family, friends and everyone lucky enough to have known him.

Watch Bryce's full emotional tribute to Dai Henwood above.

Rest easy, Dai.