A commercial building in Woolston has been extensively damaged after an early morning blaze.

A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesman told Chris Lynch they received a call about 1.20AM on Sunday to Heathcote Street.

He said two crews from Woolston and Christchurch central were sent, but the building well involved in fire by the time the two appliaces arrived.

A sign on the devastated building said it was “Wall Steel.”

A second alarm response was activated with additional resources been sent from Spreydon and Wigram Fire Stations.

A total of six appliances and specialist vehicles attended.

Much of the property was collapsed on the ground.

Fire fighters were still at the scene at midday dampening down hot spots.

Fire investigators are at the scene.

No one was injured.

Neighbouring properties had to be evacuated because of the fire.