MetService yesterday issued snow warnings for the Milford Road (State Highway 94), the Crown Range and the Lindis Pass (SH8), and these were lifted by 9am today.
Up to 10cm had been forecast for the Milford Road and it was closed overnight.
A spokesman for Milford Road/NZTA said this morning 5cm of snow had fallen around the Homer Tunnel, but ice was affecting other parts of the road too.
Snow showers should clear from midday and road users should drive with care as the highway would be icy and gritted.
Further north, black ice has been reported on the Crown Range, linking Queenstown and Wānaka, this morning after light snow overnight, which has been cleared.
However, chains should be carried if crossing the range today.
The Queenstown Lakes District Council said earlier a vehicle was blocking one lane on the Wānaka side of the summit and crews worked to have it moved.
Police said they received a report of two vehicles skidding on the Crown Range, about 5.15am.
There were also reports of very slippery roads around Arthurs Point and Arrowtown and extreme care was needed.
Motorists should allow extra time for the journey, double following distances and take care on bridges and shady spots.
Black ice and snow in Central
In Central Otago, snow had frozen to roads in the Naseby area and extreme care was needed.
The Danseys Pass Road was restricted to 4WD vehicles from the gates past the Danseys Pass Hotel due to morning snow.
There were reports of black ice on roads including Alexandra, Manuherikia and the Ida Valley.
Trucks were out gritting trouble areas from early this morning.
- ODT Online
