A gunman who prompted a partial shutdown of the Mackay CBD in central Queensland has surrendered peacefully after police negotiations.

A large area of the city was locked down after an emergency declaration was made about 5.30pm on Wednesday.

An emergency situation was declared in the Mackay CBD following reports of an armed man. Members of the public inside the declared zone were advised to seek shelter in a secure place. Credit:Queensland Police Service

Witnesses called police after the man, who was armed with at least two long-arm rifles, fired several shots into the air near Gregory Street.

Detective Inspector Brendan Smith confirmed the gunman surrendered about 8pm.