Police say the evacuations from nearby homes is a precaution. (file image) Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
Residents were evacuated in Gisborne due to a fire at a commercial building.
Police said the building on Cochrane Street in Elgin caught alight about 7pm. People were asked to stay away from the area and traffic management was in place.
Police said the evacuations from nearby homes was a precaution.
About 8.40pm, police said the fire was under control. Cordons had been stood down and residents had returned to their homes.
Police will have a scene guard at the location overnight.