A suspected bird strike has left Melbourne-bound passengers in Invercargill overnight after an emergency landing

The Virgin Australia flight experienced the problem on departure from Queenstown just on 6pm yesterday.

Witnesses report flames coming from an engine and loud bangs

Fire and Emergency New Zealand were prepared, but any fire appeared to have gone out by its arrival.

The airline's Chief Operations Officer Stuart Aggs says he's not aware of any injuries to anyone on board the Boeing 737-800.

All 73 were given accommodation and transport for the night - while arrangements were made to get them to Australia.