A man has been taken into custody as a large police operation unfolds in a North Canterbury town.

Police, including the armed offenders squad and a dog unit, were called to a property on Good St in Rangiora about 8.30am.

Police said they were responding to reports of a firearm in the area.

A man, in handcuffs, was seen being escorted away from the property by police.

A man has been taken into custody. Photo / Nathan Morton

Five police cars were at the scene.

An armed officer was seen carrying a ladder towards a fence in the backyard of the property.

Earlier, police told NZME they were responding to a report of a possible sighting of a firearm in Rangiora.

Shortly after lunchtime, a statement confirmed police were still at the address investigating the matter.

“There is no danger to the public or residents in the area.”