Police have found a package containing a "suspected explosive device" and ammunition at a vacant address on Newcastle Street in Christchurch.

Photo: RNZ / Conan Young

A 33- year-old man has been arrested and is currently speaking to police.

Police were called to the suburb of Phillipstown just after 3pm today and set up a cordon.

Police said there was reports of "suspicious items" at a home on Newcastle Street and a NZDF Explosive Ordnance Disposal team had "rendered the package safe".

Police lifted the cordons from the area about an hour later and residents were allowed back home about six o'clock.

A no-fly zone was put in place over the area.