Multiple fire and emergency crews are at the scene of a large blaze in central Christchurch.

They received the first call to the derelict building on Colombo Street, near Bealey Avenue at 8.45PM.

A neighbour who didn’t want to be named said the property had become a magnet for homeless people.

He said it was the second blaze at the address and had urged the council to mow the lawns of the property.

Chris Lynch Media understands the building used to be tenanted by Academy.

It’s been on the market for over a year according to a local resident.

Police have blocked off Colombo Street near Bealey Avenue.

A Fire and Emergency Command Unit has been set up at the scene.