The defence in the Loafers Lodge fire trial claims a jury would be engaging in "massive guesswork and speculation" should they side with the Crown

The trial of the 50-year-old man, charged with five counts of murder and two of arson is in its final stages.

It its closing address today, the Defence told the court the defendant was far more unwell than he appeared at the time.

The man had been diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, and while admitting to lighting the fires, is claiming insanity.

The Crown suggests the defendant did not like living at the Wellington hostel, and lit two fires so he could be moved.

It contends he knew what he was doing was wrong.