Man found alive at Levin property after emergency services battle fire at barricaded home

The man who barricaded himself inside a Levin property has been found alive after it was engulfed in fire.

Earlier on Friday, emergency services confirmed they responded after a blaze broke out at the Bledisloe St address around 7pm.

After battling for a "significant amount of time", Fire and Emergency were able to extinguish it - and in an update police said they have found the man alive.

"He is currently being checked over by ambulance staff and will be transported to hospital for further treatment," a police spokesperson said.

"There is still work to be done at the property to ascertain whether there are any items in the house which pose an ongoing risk."

The man's dog was also found alive and is being cared for. 

Until that work has been completed, cordons will remain in place and members of the public should continue to avoid the area.  

Police said further information will be released as it becomes available.

The man at the property barricaded himself there on Thursday and nearby residents have been evacuated as a precaution. Some are at staying in motels and at the Horowhenua Library.

"We know it can be upsetting to be asked to leave your home - especially when we're not able to say much about the incident that's prompted this - but public safety must always be our number one priority," Manawatū area commander Insp Sarah Stewart said.

"The welfare of the displaced residents is very important and we're grateful to Horowhenua District Council staff who are assisting with temporary accommodation when displaced residents don't have family or friends nearby to stay with."

Any directly affected residents who had concerns were being asked to visit the Levin police station, or call 105 and quote file number P051449147.