A friend of the two people killed in a Christchurch double homicide has spoken about the lives behind the tragedy, saying they were loved by those who knew them.

Speaking to chrislynchmedia.com, the friend said he wanted people to remember those who died as human beings rather than judge them solely by their backgrounds.

“My two friends who passed away on Saturday may not have been upstanding members of our community, but they had lives and people who loved them for who they truly were, not for their pasts, their beliefs or their opinions. When they let their guard down, you got to see the real people behind it all.”

He also spoke warmly about the two people injured in the incident. “My friends that were injured in this are some of the most caring and willing to do whatever they can to help others.”

He said they had welcomed people into their lives without judging them for their pasts, offering friendship and support to those who needed someone in their corner.

Two people died, one was seriously injured and another was critically injured following an incident at a property on Olliviers Road in Phillipstown about 12.50am on Saturday.

A 58-year-old man has been charged with two counts of murder, one of attempted murder and one of wounding with intent. He is due to appear in the Christchurch District Court on Monday.

Police have not confirmed what led to the incident.

Detective Inspector Greg Murton said police believed the incident was isolated and were not seeking anyone else in connection with the investigation at this stage.

Residents have been reassured there is no ongoing risk to public safety, although police will remain in the area over the coming days as scene examinations continue.

Anyone with information or CCTV footage from the area is asked to contact police on 105, quoting file number 261010/6589.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.