Police and security guards remain at Rochester and Rutherford Hall after the death of a student.

A sudden death at a University of Canterbury hall of residence is a "rare and tragic" incident, the acting vice-chancellor says.

The female student died at Rochester and Rutherford Hall on Ilam Rd in Christchurch on Saturday night.

In a statement on Sunday, police said the young woman's death was not suspicious. The matter had been referred to the coroner.

STACY SQUIRES/FAIRFAX Police are at the scene of a sudden death in Christchurch.

Police said the family of the student had been notified and officers were speaking with a number of people in relation to the death. An autopsy is being carried out.

Canterbury University acting vice-chancellor Dr Hamish Cochrane said the university had extended support to the student's family and would work with Rochester and Rutherford Hall to support any students affected.

"University staff were at the hall last evening assisting students, and all the university's students and staff were advised [Sunday], and made aware of the support available," he said.

"This is a rare and tragic incident. The university is very mindful it has occurred in period leading up to exams and end-of-year assessments. The university has a wide range of support services available."

Rochester and Rutherford Hall principal Stephen Kissick said he appreciated the work of the police and the university.

"[The] Rochester and Rutherford Hall community wish to express our deep sadness at the loss of one of our students. We are grieving with the family of a bright, wonderful student," he said.

"We are grateful to the many people who have contacted us offering their support and prayers. We request privacy in order to best help our students and the student's family as they deal with this tragic loss."

Students in the hall were asked to contact their parents to let them know they were OK.

Residents at the hall said they were told a student died, but were given no further details.

They were able to stay at the hall overnight.

Rochester and Rutherford Hall is a catered, independent hall with around 180 residents, mostly younger undergraduates.