His management confirmed the news in a statement, saying: 'Dai truly brought people together.
'His contribution to comedy, numerous charities and the positive spirit of Aotearoa will leave an indelible mark. He made so many people proud. Nothing made Dai happier than making people laugh, and he shared that gift throughout his life.
'He will be deeply missed by his whānau, his friends and everyone who watched him entertain a nation. We were lucky to have him in our lives, and we will hold his memory close in our hearts.'
Dai was the son of the late Ray Henwood, a legendary New Zealand actor who appeared in a wide range of popular films and television shows, including the New Zealand productions of Xena: Warrior Princess, Hercules and Heavenly Creatures.
Beloved New Zealand actor and comedian Dai Henwood has died at 48. The veteran performer passed away on Tuesday morning at an Auckland hospital surrounded by his family after a six-year battle with bowel cancer
Following in his father's footsteps, Dai appeared in several well-known productions, including Xena, Power Rangers Beast Morphers and Derby Dogs.
He was diagnosed with metastatic bowel cancer in 2020 and underwent chemotherapy and surgery. Dai kept his illness private until revealing his battle in 2023.
Earlier this year, he said he was continuing to fight the disease after completing his 51st round of chemotherapy.
Alongside his work as a stand-up comedian, Dai became a familiar face on New Zealand prime-time television. He appeared on local versions of popular shows including Family Feud, Dancing With The Stars, The Project and Lego Masters.
A host of celebrity friends from Australia and New Zealand shared tributes to Dai on social media.
'I'm completely saddened to hear the news that our comedy family across the ditch has lost a true foundation stone today with Dai's passing. Only 48, but his was a life so incredibly well lived,' Rove McManus wrote alongside a photograph of the pair.
'Dai was one of the good ones. He will be sorely missed by all of us who had the privilege of performing with him, or simply spending time in his wickedly cheeky presence.
'My deepest sympathies go to his family and friends. Thank you for sharing him with us.'
Dai was the son of legendary late New Zealand actor Ray Henwood and appeared on numerous popular shows, including the New Zealand versions of Dancing With The Stars and Lego Masters
Among those paying tribute to Dai was his longtime friend and fellow entertainer Rove McManus
'I'm heartbroken to learn that Aotearoa has lost Dai today. The beloved comedian and television host died at Auckland Hospital with his family by his side. I was fortunate to work with Dai for the past 20 years,' New Zealand newsreader Samantha Hayes added.
'Being in Dai's orbit was one of life's greatest gifts. Anyone who crossed paths with him knows how rarely you meet someone like him,' Dancing With The Stars NZ host Sharyn Casey said.
Dai is survived by his wife, Joanna, and their two children.
