Mourners have gathered in Newtown this morning for the funeral of Michael Eric Wahrlich, affectionately known as "Mike the Juggler", one of the victim's of last week's deadly hostel fire.
Michael's family decided on an open funeral so that the people of Wellington could attend.
He was one of five people known to have died in the fire at Loafers Lodge, while police are still trying to account for up to ten others.
RNZ reporter Soumya Bhamidipati is outside the funeral home in Newtown, and speaks with Charlotte Cook.
