Queenstown Lakes District Council emergency management officer Brenden Winder said up to 10cm of snow was predicted down to about 500m.
Mr Winder said the snow was not expected to be "heavy" at lake level, but residents should still be prepared and listen to local radio stations for cancellation notices or messages.
Downer EDI Works, the council's roading contractor, would monitor the situation from 5.30am, with five grit trucks and four ploughs ready to operate on Wakatipu routes and a further three grit trucks with two ploughs to work on the Wanaka routes, including the Crown Range road.
Snow showers were forecast to continue into tomorrow morning, possibly adding a further 1cm to 2cm of snow.
"It's definitely time to throw the chains in the back of the car.
"Winter driving will apply. That means slow down and drive to the conditions."
Any school notices or delays or changes to bus timetables would be broadcast on local radio stations from about 7am.
