Several homes have been evacuated in Nelson, after the bomb squad was called-in to assess a suspicious item

Police were called shortly after 5pm to the Waimea Road address, to reports of the item and an alleged threat.

The Defence Force Bomb Squad is currently on site.

Police say a number of homes in the area, including a section of Waimea Road and Renwick Place have been evacuated as a precaution.

Anyone affected can go the temporary evacuation centre which has been set-up at the Victory Community Centre on Totara Street.