Arrest after bag threat in Christchurch

A man has been arrested after allegedly threatening workers with a suspicious bag in Christchurch this evening.

Police said the incident occurred at a commercial premises on Harewood Rd in Bishopdale.

They were called at 7.52pm after a man "presented an item in a bag and threatened staff with it", a statement said.

Police would not elaborate on what the man claimed was in the bag.

He left the premises without incident about 20 minutes later and was then found and arrested, police said.

"There was no legitimate threat contained within the bag. Canterbury police are supporting the staff and would like to thank them for being alert and professional in their response to this incident."