Thousands of people are descending on Rome ahead of Pope Francis' funeral on Saturday. 

It's already a busy time for the city, with Easter and other local public holidays falling this week. 

Newstalk ZB's Jo McKenna told Mike Hosking she's spoken to people who have waited in line for four hours to catch a glimpse of the Pope. 

She says the Vatican is considering keeping the doors open past midnight tonight because of the demand. 

Security checks will also be stepped up ahead of the funeral, with the Vatican working out the arrangements tonight. 

McKenna says they will include firefighters who specialise in terrorism and chemical warfare.  

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