Armed police have surrounded a house in Shirley.

A resident told Chris Lynch Media armed officers and dog units have cordoned off Briggs Road near Akaroa Street corner.

An offender in house was refusing to come out she said.

“A woman and child came out of the house just after 9PM.”

The resident said she heard police say “your house is surrounded by armed police, we have a warrant for your arrest, come out the front door now with your hands empty, we will not be leaving.”

Chris Lynch Media understands St John Ambulance has been called to the scene.

A police spokeswoman said police are working to locate a person of interest in the area.