Christchurch Polytechnic evacuated as fire takes hold

A large part of Christchurch Polytechnic campus was evacuated because of a fire today.

Canterbury district fire commander Brian Joyce said the fire began in the basement of a six-storey building.

Polytech staff were unavailable for comment because they had left the building.

Mr Joyce said the fire was under control by 1.15pm but three appliances and firefighters were at the scene for some time after dampening down hot spots.

- NZPA