'Suspicious item' on Nelson street poses no threat to public - police

A "suspicious item" discovered on a Nelson street this afternoon has been determined to pose "no risk to the public", police say.

The New Zealand Defence Force's Explosive Ordnance Disposal team responded to the incident after driving to Nelson from Christchurch, an NZDF spokesperson earlier told 1News.

Police earlier closed roads in response to reports of a "suspicious item" on Kerr St, Nelson, about 1.15pm this afternoon.

"The New Zealand Defence Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal team responded and determined that it posed no risk to the public," police said this evening.

"Police would like to thank Nelson residents for their patience."

Kerr St, Konini St and Gloucester St had been closed as a precaution.

The cordons have since been lifted.

Inquiries are ongoing.