Heavy rain causes flooding in Christchurch

The Avon River. File photo / APN

Reports of flooding are starting to come in thick and fast in Christchurch.

Police say they are receiving a steady run of calls reporting water up to car doors and windows in some cases.

A police spokesman says they've had reports the Heathcote River has broken its banks at Waimea Terrace in Beckenham.

Residents say the Avon has broken its banks around the Gayhurst Road Bridge in Dallington.

A business in Bromley reports water has crossed the road and is threatening to flood the premises.

Police say the most they can do at the moment is traffic management in danger areas.

There is also flooding and slips on roads around Akaroa.