Emergency services have brought a large house fire under control on Whitehall Street in Christchurch.

Christchurch Metro Area Commander Superintendent Lane Todd, said reports were made at 8.25pm that a house was on fire with people unaccounted for.

That statement was made just before 10PM.

Two people suffered critical injuries he said.

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Superintendent Todd said police were still working to determine how many people remain unaccounted for.

Police were at the scene with cordons in place on Whitehall Street and Hills Road.

At least four St John ambulances, two rapid response vehicles and an operations manager were at the scene.

There were four crews in attendance, a Fire and Emergency spokesperson said.

Members of the public are being advised to avoid the area while emergency services carry out their work.

Chris Lynch Media understands at least one person has died in the fire.