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Weather forecasters say a southerly front rolling across the country is moving quickly, with snowfalls and rain expected to ease overnight.
Driving conditions were treacherous throughout Otago and Mid-Canterbury this morning with snow falling heavily inland.
Snow blanketed Methven, 34km northwest of Ashburton, and the Mt Hutt skifield nearby reported steady falls.
Mount Hutt College sent home students who catch the bus after snow started falling at around 8.30am.
Further south, residents in Geraldine and Ashburton reported a light covering of snow.
But police reported no major weather-related problems and the alpine passes remained open with motorists advised to carry chains.
Porters Pass on State Highway 73 between Springfield and Arthurs Pass was closed only to towing vehicles.
Transit New Zealand warned of very icy conditions throughout Southland and Otago, advising motorists in those areas to carry chains and watch for grit in shaded areas and on bridge decks.
A low avalanche hazard was reported SH94 between Te Anau and Milford, with chains to be carried.
MetService spokesman Bob McDavitt said it appeared the front was "rolling through quite quickly" and temperatures were already beginning to rise behind it.
Mr McDavitt said rain was expected to ease tonight, but he warned conditions would remain "windy, wet, showery and cold overnight".
"The wind should drop tomorrow, followed by a harsh frost on Thursday," he said.
Wellington MetService forecaster Neal Osborne said the worst of spring's first southerly should be over by late tomorrow.
A weaker front was heading north, with snow predicted as low as 300m overnight.
"By late afternoon or evening (tomorrow) it should be looking pretty good," Mr Osborne said.
"The worst of it has gone for now, until the next (southerly), which won't be nearly as bad."
The MetService this evening lifted heavy snow warnings for Canterbury and Otago, but warned further snow showers were expected.
- NZPA
