Five people stuck on top of a vehicle roof in the Waimakariri River have been rescued.

The incident was reported just after 6PM.

Local Fire and Emergency crews were called to an area in Kirwee.

A swift water rescue was deployed.

A Westpac rescue helicopter was called to the scene and landed near the river.

A family member told Chris Lynch Media the five occupants were rescued and were being taken home by the local fire brigade.