MetService has issued a number of snow warnings for alpine passes in the South Island and is urging people to keep en eye on conditions.
"We've issued a number of Severe Weather Watches and Warnings alongside Road Snow forecasts and are urging people to keep up to date with the latest forecasts."
The NZ Transport Agency advises motorists to plan ahead, as snow could make driving conditions hazardous.
“We’re asking road users to plan before they set off and be prepared for cold conditions. People should check the MetService and Waka Kotahi journey planner before setting off.”
The unsettled conditions will continue into Friday but look set to improve in most parts of the South on Saturday.
Road snow warnings
Lewis Pass (SH7)
Snow is expected about the top of the road on Thursday. From 8am to 9pm, some 2cm to 4cm may accumulate about the top of the road, with lesser
amounts to 600 metres.
Arthur's Pass (SH73)
Snow is expected about the road on Thursday. From 2am to 3pm, between 5cm and 10cm may accumulate above 700 metres, with lesser amounts to 500 metres.
Porters Pass (SH73)
Snow is expected about the road on Thursday. From 1am to 8pm Thursday between 10cm and 20cm may accumulate above 700 metres, with 25cm to 30cm possible about the summit, and lesser amounts to 500 metres.
Lindis Pass (SH8)
Snow is expected about the road until early Thursday morning. From 9pm Wednesday to 3am Thursday, some 2cm to 4cm of snow may settle near the summit, with lesser amounts to 700 metres.
Crown Range Road between Wanaka and Queenstown
Snow is expected about the road until early Thursday morning. From 9pm Wednesday to 2am Thursday, a further 1 to 2cm of snow may settle near the summit,with lesser amounts to 700 metres.
Milford Road (SH94)
Snow is expected during this afternoon and early evening. From 2pm to 6pm Wednesday Between 2 and 4cm of snow may settle near the tunnel, with lesser amounts to 700 metres. A few light snow flurries are possible about the tunnel overnight tonight (Wednesday to Thursday), but no accumulation expected.
