The Desert Rd has reopened morning as snow and ice continue to make roads across the country too hazardous to use.
State Highway 93 between Mataura and Clinton and State Highway 7 between the Hanmer Turnoff to Springs Junction were both closed due to snow and fallen trees. Motorists travelling on Otago roads are being warned to take extreme care as black ice leaves roads in a treacherous condition.
A number of snowfall warnings have also been issued today for state highways across the South Island including the Arthur's, Lindis and Lewis Passes and Milford Rd.
The New Zealand Transport Authority this morning put in a long detour around the Desert Rd detour after main central North Island highway was closed from Rangipo to Waiouru due to snow and ice.
The agency warned black ice was set to pose a problems on the highway between Waitati and Dunedin this morning affected while south of the city motorists were warned to expect winter driving conditions with snow and ice covering stretches of the main highway.
A strong wind warning remained in place on the Rimutaka Hill Rd. Motorists were advised to take extra care, especially crossing the summit in a high-sided vehicle or motorbike.
