Snow to relatively low levels in Southland and Otago has the potential to catch out road users tonight and tomorrow.

New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is urging people to keep a close eye on the weather and to drive with extra care when snow and ice is on the roads.

After some recent warm spring weather, MetService says colder air will bring sleety showers to low levels in Southland and Clutha in the morning, with a noticeable wind chill: “These areas in the south may see snow down to 300 metres, but likely falling even lower in Southland”, it says.

Snow is expected about State Highway 1 Dunedin to Waitati tonight until tomorrow morning and down to 200 metres. The alpine passes across the South Island are also expected to receive some snow, and the Milford Road/State Highway 94 is currently closed from the Hollyford Road intersection to Donne River Bridge due to snow and a rising avalanche risk – but is expected to reopen by 10am tomorrow.

Strong northwesterly winds today, which have promoted a strong wind watch from MetService for Otago, Southland, Fiordland, Stewart Island, and the Canterbury high country, are expected to make way for a cooler air mass brought in by southwesterly winds and frosty mornings across the South Island through to Friday.  

Road users are encouraged to adjust their driving to the winter-like conditions: make sure you are visible, reduce your speed, adjust your travelling distance behind other motorists and avoid sudden braking or turning movements.

People can plan ahead by visiting our Journey Planner site, and helpful tips about driving in “winter” conditions can be found on the NZTA website.

Winter driving(external link)

The latest MetService weather warning map below.