Hundreds are without power across the region.
Parts of St Johns Hill, Kai Iwi and Aramoho are affected while there are also outages further afield in Ratana, Raetihi, much of Rangitikei and Patea.
Powerco's website say many can expect power to be restored later this afternoon.
Contractors battle fallen power lines on Seafield Rd/ Photo/ Stuart Munro Snowfall
Ruapehu District Council say snow in the area is falling at about 2-3cm per hour.
All Downer snow-clearing vehicles are activated with two 4WD snow clearing vehicles working about the network with grit truck.
Snow is reportedly falling in Marton.
Avoid unnecessary travel
A number or local roads and state highways are closed due to snow and downed trees.
State Highway 1 from Hunterville to Waiouru is closed due to snow and ice as is the Desert Road
Locally Papaiti Road and Kauarapaoa Road is closed due to fallen trees.
Snow is falling heavily in the north of the Whanganui district and Fields Track is currently impassable.
Authorities are asking people to avoid non-essential travel today and to exercise extreme caution if people do travel.
For highway information about road closures check the NZTA website.
Parks and facilities
All Council managed sportsfields are closed.
Bason Botanical Reserve, Virginia Lake, including the aviary and the Winter Gardens and arboretum are currently closed due to high winds and tree falls.
Contractors work to remove fallen trees in central Whanganui. Photo/ Stuart Munro