Emergency response underway at Christchurch Airport

An emergency response is underway at Christchurch Aiport.

Tracking website Flight Radar shows Air New Zealand flight NZ630 from Queenstown to Auckland was redirected to land in Christchurch.

Several fire trucks can be seen on the runway with police also in attendance.

The plane took off at 2.15pm and had been due to land in Auckland after 4pm. It landed in Christchurch about 3.30pm.

It is not yet known why the flight has diverted.

A fire truck approached the plane and appeared to conduct a visual inspection, before the aircraft continued to taxi to the gate. Several police cars were waiting on the tarmac.

Air New Zealand and Christchurch Airport have been approached for comment.

More to come...