Snow warnings have been lifted in the South Island, however three roads are closed due to weather, with motorists warned to watch for ice, and carry chains. There are five road warnings in place for the Southland district because of snow and ice, including black ice on State Highway 6 between Queenstown and Cromwell. A warning issued by the MetService after 8am said the snow could cause disruption to traffic, particularly in exposed places. As well as the Desert Road, State Highway 93 from Mataura to Clinton is closed because of snow. Heavy falls are expected down to 700m in Taumarunui and Taihape, with up to 10cm of snow forecast to arrive by this afternoon.

Source: New Zealand Herald July 30, 2016 21:43 UTC