Police are continuing to investigate an incident which forced the evacuation of several Christchurch houses on Thursday afternoon.

A police spokeswoman said officers executed a search warrant at a property on Ansonby Street, where an item of concern was located inside.

“As a precaution, the surrounding area was evacuated and cordons were put in place while the New Zealand Defence Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team responded.”

The item was assessed and later found not to be of concern.

Cordons were lifted, and Police said enquiries into the matter are ongoing.