A karakia was held at the scene of the Loafers Lodge fatal fire in central Wellington on 2 June, 2023. Photo: RNZ / Ellie Franco
A dawn karakia has been held for emergency staff involved in the deadly fire at Wellington's Loafers Lodge.
The 48-year-old man accused of arson over the blaze at the Newtown hostel two and a half weeks ago is now facing five murder charges.
Police have finished their scene examination and handed the site over to Fire and Emergency.
Michael Wahrlich - known as Mike the Juggler, Melvin Parun, Peter O'Sullivan, Kenneth Barnard and Liam Hockings died in the blaze.
A service of remembrance for the victims will be held later this month at the Wellington Cathedral of St Paul.