Snow closes Central Otago highways as wintry weather eases
Saturday 1 August 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story MetService, NZ Transport Agency
Two state highways in Central Otago have closed due to snow. While bitter southerlies have caused icy conditions, MetService forecasts that the worst of the cold snap has passed, leaving a brighter but frosty weekend ahead.
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More on Winter cold snap 2026
- Record low temperatures recorded across the North Island
- Temperatures plunge across New Zealand during widespread cold snap
- Severe frosts and freezing temperatures expected across New Zealand
- South Island temperatures plunge as frost hits several locations
- Snow and icy conditions cause road closures and crashes