
The police cordon at Sheffield Crescent in Christchurch.
Photo: RNZ/Anna Sargent
A substance earlier described as a ‘high-risk explosive’ and which triggered an evacuation notice, has been made safe
Cordons were in place around Sheffield Crescent in the Christchurch suburb of Burnside, after police were alerted to the substance shortly before 2.30pm on Thursday.
They have since lifted.
Police said they received a report of a “concerning substance” and sent an emergency mobile alert to people nearby.
“All members of the public are advised to immediately evacuate the area in the vicinity of Sheffield Cres Burnside Christchurch and surrounding area due to high-risk explosive substance located,” the alert said.

Residents in Burnside received an emergency alert warning of a ‘high risk explosive substance’.
Photo: Supplied
Some businesses were evacuated, including Orion and a dance studio on Sheffield Cres.
Kate Limuloa, of Silhouette Studios, told RNZ she left just after 3pm. She said none of her 15 dance students received the alert.
A nearby gym told RNZ that only one client received an emergency alert.
Christchurch Airport has confirmed it was not affected.
“The substance has been made safe and Police will be making further routine enquiries,” police said in a statement.
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