An item believed to be an IED or improvised explosive device was found at Christchurch Airport this morning, causing the evacuation of the terminal.
Police said people were told to evacuate the airport's domestic terminal "as a precaution" about 8am on Thursday.
In a statement, an Aviation Security spokesperson said an officer had identified what appeared to be an IED at one of the security screening points at Christchurch Airport.
Police have since confirmed the device was found in a bag.
As a result, Avsec incident protocols were quickly activated and the area was isolated.
The terminal was also evacuated and was thoroughly inspected by Police and Avsec Explosive Detectors dogs.
The New Zealand Defence Force's Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit attended as a precaution.
The issue was resolved shortly before 2pm and police say “no issue was found.”
