Warnings have been issued for motorists as snow forecast to hit the South Island could affect elevated areas, including Dunedin's Northern Motorway.
The New Zealand Transport Agency said drivers should carry chains if they were planning to cross the high passes - Arthurs, Lewis, Lindis and Haast - as snow was forecast from late afternoon in some places.
The Northern Motorway out of Dunedin could expect snowfalls from early tomorrow, continuing through the weekend, and many areas in Otago and Southland could receive a dusting below 500m, MetService said.
Transport Agency Journey Manager Lee Wright urged motorists to drive with care and keep safe following distances.
As of midday on Thursday, only the Milford Rd (State Highway 94 to Te Anau) was closed, owing to snow and avalanche risk.
District Road Policing Manager Inspector Tania Baron said the Southern region was now well and truly feeling the winter.
"It's important for motorists to realise that when the weather gets wet, or icy or snowy, their driving behaviour needs to change to reflect that. Driving to the conditions means exactly that...don't drive at 100kmh just because the speed sign says so, reduce your speed in the wet, ice or snow if necessary," she said.
Police advised motorists to allow extra time for their journey, plan the route they are taking, take regular breaks, slow down and never drive impaired.
