Chilly wintry blast: Snow falls to lowest levels this winter in the south; storm-force gales expected in Hawke's Bay

Those living in the deep south could be waking to a snow-covered wonderland this morning, with snow predicted to fall to its lowest levels so far this winter.

Heavy snow has been falling over the southernmost region overnight and flurries are expected to fall throughout the day as far north as Buller.

A heavy snow watch has been issued for Southland and Fiordland, with heavy snow falling above 400m and lesser amounts to lower levels.

The Queenstown Lakes District Council says snow is also starting to settle on roads around Arthurs Point and Arrowtown, as well as in the resort town's mountainside suburb of Fernhill. The Crown Range Rd is coated in snow with chains need for vehicles travelling the mountain pass.

Snow has settled at the summit of the Crown Range Road this morning. Photo / MetService

Niwa says the snow is expected to span Southland, Otago and the West Coast.

Check out that well-defined southerly approaching the South Island! 😮 🌬️

It will bring snow to the lowest levels so far this winter in Southland, Otago, and the West Coast.

Snow: all you need to know in 2️⃣0️⃣ seconds ❄️ 👇 pic.twitter.com/3h6lccarCg

— NIWA Weather (@NiwaWeather) July 22, 2020

MetService is also warning that Otago is also in for snow flurries this morning. A road snowfall warning is in place for the Dunedin-Waitati highway and all major alpine passes across the South Island.

🌨 Southern Snow Outlook 🌨
Southwesterlies are set to deliver a burst of very cold air tomorrow and settle snow across the South Island - possibly providing a white wintery wakup for some! Details at https://t.co/WmuNA9DXoJ ^Tahlia pic.twitter.com/1dbLI9K8ZF

— MetService (@MetService) July 22, 2020

In the North Island, storm-force gales are expected to hit Hawke's Bay and the Tararua District across the day.

A strong-wind warning has been issued, with severe gales gusting at up to 120km/h expected to pummel the east coast regions for the coming 12 hours.

Those driving in the areas, especially in high-sided vehicles and on motorcycles, are being warned conditions may turn hazardous.

MetService said southwesterlies were set to deliver a burst of very cold air, with snow settling across the South Island.

"The lowest-falling snow is expected before dawn – possibly providing a white wintry wake-up for some. Otago is also in for snow flurries in the morning before easing to fine spells for the remainder of the day," said MetService.

The southwest flow would bring snow to southern ski slopes, but the Alps as far north as Buller could also expect fresh powder.

Winds have now eased on SH2 Remutaka Hill after a strong wind warning was issued earlier this morning