Christchurch shooting: at least 30 people injured or killed by gunman at mosque

A witness said a man wearing a military-style jacket opened fire inside the mosque on Deans Ave.

At least 30 people have reportedly been injured or killed by a gunman at a mosque near Hagley Park in Christchurch.

A witness said a man wearing a military-style jacket opened fire inside the mosque on Deans Ave.

A childcare centre manager in the area said at least 30 people have been injured or killed by a gunman.

Three-hundred people were reportedly inside the mosque and a witness said they saw at least four people lying on the ground.

"There was blood everywhere."

The Bangladesh cricket team was reportedly at the mosque for Friday prayer when the shooting started.

People in central Christchurch have been urged to stay indoors and report any suspicious behaviour immediately to 111.

All schools in Christchurch have been put into lockdown, as well as Christchurch Hospital and Outpatients.

Earlier, an eyewitness told RNZ News that at least 15 police cars along with armed police were near the mosque.

They said it was a scary situation with people running down Deans Avenue, with armed police all around the area.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has cancelled all events this afternoon.

Deans Ave has been closed between Moorhouse Avenue and Riccarton Road. Motorists are being advised to avoid the area.