Armed police are negotiating with a person barricaded inside a property in Richmond, Christchurch.

Officers were called to an address on McLeod Street shortly after 3PM.

A local resident told chrislynchmedia.com that Armed Offenders Squad members have surrounded the house and are using a loudspeaker to urge the man to come out safely.

“We are outside your address now. Open a window or turn on a light and make yourself known. We are not going anywhere. We know you are there.” officers said.

St John ambulances were also parked near the scene.

More officers arrived at the scene at 4.43PM.

A large operational police van is parked on North Avon Road.

North Avon Road has been cordoned off between Nicholls Street and Slater Street.