The scene in central Ashburton this afternoon during the scare. Photo: The Ashburton Guardian
Several streets have now been reopened in the centre of Ashburton after police decided a suspicious item was of no concern.
Police were alerted to the item on the footpath of Ashburton's Tancred Street at 3.20pm.
Work and Income has confirmed the package was left at its office and police were called as soon as it was discovered.
General manager client service delivery Graham Allpress said the branch was closed "as a precautionary measure".
A police spokesperson said during the emergency cordons had been set up between East Street and William Street.
Cass Street was also shut between Burnett and Moore Streets.
The spokesperson said the Defence Force's bomb disposal squad had been notified.
Members of the public at the scene had been asked to follow the directions of emergency services.
This evening police have thanked the public for their assistance.
Photo: The Ashburton Guardian