The defence is closing its case in the High Court in Wellington today, in the month-long trial of the man accused of lighting the fatal Loafers Lodge fire

A 50-year-old is facing five murder charges and two arson charges for the 2023 blaze.

The Crown argues he knew lighting the fire was wrong and did so because he didn't like living there.

Herald reporter Melissa Nightingale says the defendant's counsel has been pursuing defence by insanity.

She says they're likely to argue the defendant was also entitled to believe the building's fire safety system would protect residents.