Blizzard-like conditions on the way

A polar blast is forecast to bring a dumping of snow on the south of the South Island overnight and in parts of the North Island tomorrow.

MetService is warning of between 15 and 20cm of snow about the Takatimu, Hokonui and Catlins hill country in Southland.

"The combination of snow and strong winds is expected to produce large drifts and blizzard conditions in some exposed areas, with wind chill temperatures of below -5C," MetService says.

Snow showers are also expected to near sea level in Southland and Otago.
The front is expected to cross the North Island about the middle of tomorrow bringing heavy snow falls to the central North Island possibly affecting the Desert Road.

- NZPA