Ray Columbus is being hailed as greater than a legend.

Columbus died at his home north of Auckland yesterday after a long battle with his health.

His career in the entertainment industry spanned more than three decades, during which he was a singer, songwriter, music manager and television star.

Columbus won every major award in New Zealand show business including Entertainer of the Year and two Silver Scrolls.

He was best known for his hits She's a Mod and Til We Kissed.

Producer and manager Paul Ellis said he helped put New Zealand music on the global stage.

"He's not a legend, he's a cornerstone of New Zealand music."

Columbus is being remembered for his love of New Zealand tunes.

Ellis said Columbus wanted the world to know how good New Zealand music is.

"He was a true ambassador for NZ music basically. I guess he loved his homeland."