A substance earlier described as a “high risk explosive,” which prompted an evacuation alert in Burnside, has now been made safe.

Police established cordons around Sheffield Crescent in the Christchurch suburb after being alerted to the substance shortly before 2.30pm on Thursday. The cordons have since been lifted.

Police said they received a report of a “concerning substance” and issued an emergency mobile alert to people in the area.

“All members of the public are advised to immediately evacuate the area in the vicinity of Sheffield Cres Burnside Christchurch and surrounding area due to high risk explosive substance located,” the alert said.