Met Service issues weather warning

Strong winds, low temperatures, hail and snow have for been forecast for many parts of the country on Friday, although the Nelson-Tasman region should avoid the worst of the outbreak.

Cold and showery weather is expected to spread all over New Zealand, with southern and eastern parts of the North and South Islands set to bear the brunt of the cold snap. Snow is expected down to about 300 metres in parts of Marlborough and Canterbury and to around 200 metres in Southland and Otago.

Heavy snowfalls are not expected and the main weather threat is from strong winds and cold temperatures. Farmers in affected areas may wish to shelter vulnerable stock.

Snow is likely to affect roads in both islands, including roads through the central North Island, the Rimutaka road and all passes across the southern Alps. Motorists travelling on Friday, especially in the evening, are advised to check the conditions of roads before setting out.

Although severe, the cold outbreak is expected to be shortlived, with showers quickly clearing from most places on Saturday and temperatures rebounding.

- © Fairfax NZ News