Fire Service were alerted to a fire in Peterborough Street at approximately 8.20pm on Tuesday 9 April 2013.
The property was an earthquake damaged dwelling.
Located within the scene was a body. The identity of the deceased is not yet known and due to the severe fire damage to the property the identity will not be known until a post mortem has occurred.
The property has come to Police attention previously as used house by vagrants as a shelter.
Fire and Police have commenced an investigation into the cause.
Media please note there is no further information available at this time. Police will try to provide an update this afternoon if more details become available.
END
John Gallagher
Detective Senior Sergeant
Christchurch CIB