23 May 2023

Well known Wellington man " Mike the Juggler" remembered

From Morning Report, 7:30 am on 23 May 2023
"Mike the Juggler" thought to be one of the deceased victims of the Loafer's Lodge fire

"Mike the Juggler" thought to be one of the deceased victims of the Loafer's Lodge fire Photo: Stuff/Gerard O'Brien

A well known Wellington man known as "Mike the juggler" has been named as a victim of last week's Loafers Lodge fire.

67-year-old Mike Wahrlich frequented Wellington's Lambton Quay and Courtenay Place for about 30 years, and was known for his big grin as he juggled tennis balls.

His sister yesterday confirmed to Stuff that he was likely one of the four confirmed victims.

Wellington City councillor Tamatha Paul spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss this morning.