Former Dunedin mayor Dave Cull has died after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, the Otago Daily Times understands. He was 71.

Cull was diagnosed in October last year and received chemotherapy treatment.

He had been diagnosed with a tumour on his pancreas earlier that month and told the Otago Daily Times he knew then he was likely to face a tough journey ahead.

He spent about five weeks in hospital earlier this year before being discharged in March.

He then spent four nights at the Otago Community Hospice in Dunedin before returning home.

He had three terms as mayor and decided not to seek re-election in 2019, opting instead to pursue a position on the Southern District Health Board.

Cull was elected and then appointed chairman in December 2019, but his stint with the board lasted only until October last year, because of the health challenge he faced.

He was married to Joan Wilson and they have four grandchildren, aged from 2 to 15.

Speaking to the Otago Daily Times last month after returning home, he said he continued to find people's visits uplifting and he was getting rest.

Cull said his prognosis had reinforced for him the importance of having honest conversations with family.

He tried to be open with them about his illness, and he said it had provided opportunities to continue to learn.

He said the hospice was not a gloomy place. There was often a vibe of joy, he said.