A Fire and Rescue spokesperson said they were called at 4.40pm, and had the fire under control by 5.30.

A police spokesman said they were called at 4.30pm, and had tried to gain entry to the unit to see if there was anyone inside.

Police said they were unable to gain entry to the unit due to smoke, and with the assistance of a neighbour, used a garden hose to keep the blaze under control until fire services arrived.

Police said after the fire was extinguished they found no one inside. Investigations into the cause of the blaze are continuing.