Shrine to Blanket Man

Ben Hana, or Blanket Man as he was more commonly known, was a homeless man who lived on the streets of Wellington. He was often seen on Courtney Place, the city's "main drag", wearing only a loincloth or the blanket he was named after.

He died on Sunday from complications resulting from chronic alcohol abuse and malnutrition. He was a polarising figure in Wellington. Seen as either a free spirited hero who lived by his own rules, or a public nusiance who was often in court on offensive behaviour charges.

The blip today shows the 'shrine' that has been created for him at one of his favourite places on Courtney Place.

Rest in peace.