Severe weather and temperature drops forecast across New Zealand

Thursday 30 July 2026 · 3 outlets · 4 reports · updated Thu 30 Jul, 12:05pm

In this story MetService

A weather front is expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, and snow to parts of the South Island and Wellington. While some areas experienced mild conditions on Thursday, MetService warns of a sharp temperature drop and potential highway closures. Snow may fall to low levels in Southland, Central Otago, and Canterbury.

How they headlined it

8:24am10:57am12:05pm

1. 1NewsThu 30 Jul, 8:24am

   New front brings 'wetter, windier' weather for some areas (opens in new tab)

2. StuffThu 30 Jul, 8:26am

   Why Dunedin was NZ’s warmest spot, while Christchurch froze (opens in new tab)

   • Wild winds, thunderstorms possible before bitter cold sweeps the country (opens in new tab) Thu 30 Jul, 12:05pm
3. The PressThu 30 Jul, 10:57am

   Snow and gale warnings prompt travel caution for South Island motorists (opens in new tab)