Firefighters have managed to contain a massive blaze in Sydenham, preventing flames from spreading to neighbouring buildings after a major emergency response in Christchurch.

The fire broke out at a commercial property on Brisbane Street about 11.30am on Wednesday, sending towering clouds of black smoke across the city.

Dramatic drone footage captured by drain inspector Shannon Radcliff while he was out working shows the scale of the inferno, with flames tearing through the building.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand confirmed the blaze had been contained to the single storey structure, measuring approximately 60 metres by 60 metres, and crews did not expect it to spread further.

Eight fire trucks from Christchurch, Spreydon, Woolston, Ilam and Wigram fire stations attended, including two aerial ladder trucks used to attack the flames from above.

The intensity of the blaze caused significant damage to the property, with parts of the structure appearing to collapse and wooden pallets in an adjoining yard catching fire.

Police confirmed there were no reported injuries, while Fire and Emergency said everyone had been accounted for.

Strong winds carried smoke towards Moorhouse Avenue, prompting health warnings for people living and working nearby.

Health New Zealand said people with respiratory or heart conditions, pregnant women, young children and older adults were particularly vulnerable to exposure.

Residents were advised to close windows and doors, turn off air conditioning systems or switch them to recirculate, and keep pets indoors until conditions improved.

Police closed intersections at Brisbane and Byron streets, and Gasson and Carlyle streets, causing significant traffic delays as emergency vehicles moved into the area.

Dozens of people gathered behind cordons to watch firefighters battle the flames.

Anyone experiencing symptoms from smoke exposure can contact Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free medical advice.

The cause of the fire remains unknown.