Police are investigating whether a broken window has caused the death of a university student in Christchurch.

Emergency services were called to a sudden death in Matipo St, Riccarton, about 3.50am today.

Inquiries are ongoing into what happened, police said.

The Herald understands police are investigating whether a broken window at a flat on Matipo St is linked to his death. Police are focused on the property, with yellow and orange markers leading from the driveway to an area guarded by a forensics tent.

The homeowner told the Herald he was aware there was an incident at the rental property, but declined to comment further.

A University of Canterbury spokesperson said they were aware one of its students had died, but were awaiting confirmation from police.

“We offer our deepest condolences to their family and friends,” the university said.

 “Based on the information we have, we’ve offered support and assistance to those immediately impacted and we have support in place for our student and staff community.”

The death is being treated as unexplained. Photo / George Heard

Part of the street is cordoned off while police examine the scene.

The police cordon is outside Wharenui School, near Blenheim Rd, beside Wharenui Swimming Pool and Sports Centre.

Medical equipment can be seen strewn across the road on the corner of Matipo and Elizabeth Sts.

Police at the scene where a university student died on Matipo St, Christchurch.

Five red and yellow packs can be seen open with masks, gloves and bandages at the intersection near traffic lights and on the footpath.

A police forensics tent has now moved to cover the section of road where the medical equipment and splatter of blood lies.

Wharenui School has told parents that the school is open despite the cordons and advised parents to come into the school from the Rex St or Blenheim Rd end.

A mobile police station has now arrived on Matipo St, as school buses prepare to take Wharenui School to their school camp.

Members of the public are asked to avoid the area.