The hunt is on for ideas for shifting seagulls as a flock causes havoc on Christchurch's New Regent Street. 

The protected birds are over-running the tourism hotspot.

They're returning to nest after settling in the foundations of a demolished Armagh Street building. 

Belle Cafe manager Casey Alderson says the seagulls dive-bomb for people's scraps without fear.

"Small children don't freak them out that much, so they're not hesitant to swoop down in front of a small child and take whatever they have on their plates."

Alderson says after failed attempts to deter the birds, ideas would be helpful.

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