A man has been arrested and police have launched a homicide inquiry after a woman has died in Mount Roskill this morning.

The Rangiora Police Station will be closed for six to eight weeks for earthquake strengthening.

It was initially thought it may be open within a week after earthquake damage was found during a recent refurbishment.

However, Canterbury Rural Area Prevention Manager Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Cottam says while work on the building is progressing well since the station was closed last week, it is going to take longer than initially forecast.

"Some Police staff are working from a temporary premises in Rangiora, however, there is unfortunately no capability for a public reception counter.

"Anyone who needs to visit a station can do so in Kaiapoi.  Alternatively, they can call 105 or go online ( 105.police.govt.nz) for all non-emergency situations.''

Mr Cottam says frontline staff are still working 24/7 as normal and there will be no disruption of service to the North Canterbury community.

"We would like to thank the public for their patience during this temporary closure.''