Emergency services remain at the scene of a large house fire on Whitehall Street in Christchurch tonight.

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

Two people have suffered critical injuries he said.

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

Police are 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.

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.