Snow and icy conditions cause road closures and crashes

Tuesday 4 August 2026 · 2 outlets · 7 reports · updated Tue 4 Aug, 8:08am

An Antarctic blast has brought snow to low levels across the eastern South Island, closing several state highways and schools. Multiple vehicle crashes occurred in Dunedin, while Cook Strait ferry sailings have been cancelled. Police are advising residents to avoid travel due to treacherous conditions.

How they headlined it

6:05am8:08am

1. 1NewsTue 4 Aug, 6:05am

   Cars slide off roads as cold snap brings snow to Christchurch, Dunedin (opens in new tab)

   • Snow closes Dunedin schools and state highways, sleet falls in Wellington (opens in new tab) Tue 4 Aug, 6:05am
   • 'Avoid travelling': Dunedin snow closes schools and state highways (opens in new tab) Tue 4 Aug, 6:05am
   • Wintry blast closes Dunedin state highways as cold snap bites (opens in new tab) Tue 4 Aug, 6:05am
   • Wintry blast shuts Otago, Canterbury highways as cold snap bites (opens in new tab) Tue 4 Aug, 6:05am
   • Sleet and snow hit Wellington, Dunedin police issue ice warning (opens in new tab) Tue 4 Aug, 6:05am
2. StuffTue 4 Aug, 8:08am

   Live: It's now snowing in Christchurch as freezing weather moves up the country (opens in new tab)