Two more Loafers Lodge fire victims named by police

The name of two Loafers Lodge fire victims have been released by police this afternoon.

They were 67-year-old Kenneth Barnard and 50-year-old Liam James Hockings.

In a statement, Barnard's family described him as a “funny little kid, a kindly boy who became a kindly man as he grew up”.

An uncle and brother, his family said he was adored by his nieces and nephews.

“His phone calls were always caring, and he was very patient when teased, which some of us did every time the opportunity presented itself.

“Rest in Peace, dear Brother. We will really miss you.”

The family of Hockings, whose name was released several hours later, issued a statement of their own.

“We would like to thank everyone for their support and kindness at this time,” they said.

Barnard and Hockings are the latest victims of the tragic blaze to be named by police after flames ripped through the Wellington hostel last week, killing six people.

Those already named include Peter Glenn O’Sullivan, 64, Melvin Joseph Parun, 68, and Michael Wahrlich, 67.

It comes as tributes began rolling in to Wellington street identity Mike ‘the Juggler’ Wahrlich.

Councillor Tamantha Paul said Mike's juggling performance had brightened up the day for many who saw him in the central city.

"Every time you would be walking down Lambton Quay or around town - sometimes you'd see him on Courtenay Place - you'd just see this person with the biggest smile on his face.

"He'd sort of catch your eye and he'd kind of engage ... and he'd just perform for you, put on a show."

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Wellingtonians have also been seen placing juggling balls on Lambton Quay, where he performed.