One of New Zealand's most decorated WWII soldiers farewelled in Australia

One of New Zealand's most decorated soldiers has been farewelled at a service in Queensland today.

Major General Walter Thomas won the Military Cross twice in World War II.

His bravery's been celebrated at his funeral in Beaudesert, the country town south of Brisbane which had become his home.

"The awards, his writings and his stories make him a special war time warrior and a Kiwi warrior to boot," friend Robert Bryan said.

He was captured and held in a German prisoner of war camp in Greece, prompting numerous audacious escape attempts.

"One particular attempt involved him playing dead and being carted out in a casket, which would've worked if he hadn't fallen asleep and his snoring alerted the guards," NZ Defence Force Lieutenant Colonel Kendall Langston recounted.

Family are planning on holding a service for Mr Thomas back in New Zealand as well.

They intend for his ashes to be returned to his original hometown of Motueka.