Evacuations after suspected gas bottle explosion in Christchurch

Emergency services are responding to a possible gas bottle explosion in the Christchurch suburb of Hornby this morning. Photo / George Heard

Two people have been hospitalised after a suspected gas bottle explosion in Christchurch this morning.

Emergency services were called to the incident on Waterloo Rd in Hornby just after 9.30am.

Fire and Emergency said they were responding to a car fire, potentially caused by a gas bottle leak.

Hato Hone St John sent one ambulance and took two people to Christchurch Hospital in a moderate condition.

Emergency services are responding to a possible gas bottle explosion in the Christchurch suburb of Hornby this morning. Photo / George Heard

Police said it was assisting with traffic management.

Workers from neighbouring businesses have been evacuated as emergency services respond.

Waterloo Rd has been closed between Racecourse Rd and SH1/Carmen Rd.

More to come.