Two people have died in a house fire in the Christchurch east suburb of Burwood this evening.

A Fire and Emergency spokesman says crews received the first call at 10.40PM to the blaze on Vivian Street.

He confirmed two people died as a result of the fire, but details on their ages weren’t immediately available.

However, it’s understood the victims are children.

Witnesses say the house on Vivian Street was well ablaze by the time fire crews arrived at about 10.30pm.

A neighbour says they heard screaming coming from the house as the fire got bigger.

He says at least five fire appliances and three ambulances are at the scene.

Another neighbour says family, including children, live at the property.

The street has been cordoned off.