Gunmen have opened fire at two mosques in Christchurch killing what's said to be "many people"

And police say it is still an active shooter situation.

A body has been seen lying near Al Noor Mosque in Deans Avenue central Christchurch and a second gunman has been seen near Linwood Masjid mosque.

A witness has also seen a child lying in the middle of Dean Ave and another man says a relative of his has been shot inside the mosque.

A Newstalk ZB reporter has spoken to people who were inside the mosque, she says they were covered in blood, and told her a "a lot of people are dead".

Police Commissioner Mike Bush says a serious and evolving situation is occurring in Christchurch with an active shooter.

He says police are responding with full capability to manage the situation, but the risk remains extremely high.

They're urging residents across Christchurch to stay indoors until further notice.

All Christchurch schools are in lockdown.