Winter weather warnings June 2025

The story so far

MetService forecast a cold change for this week, bringing rain and wind across New Zealand, with snow expected in parts of Canterbury and Southland.^{3 Jun 2025} A deep flow was expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds and plunging temperatures from Wednesday into Thursday, with orange heavy rain warnings issued and Northland among the regions that could be affected.^{3 Jun 2025} A cold snap brought snow to Canterbury's high country and alpine passes, and MetService forecast mid-single-digit temperatures for the weekend, with overnight lows well below freezing.^{5 Jun 2025} A cold southerly then brought heavy snow and freezing temperatures to the South Island, with snow falling at Lake Tekapo and parts of Canterbury, and warnings issued for travel disruption and power cuts.^{6 Jun 2025} A polar blast brought sub-zero temperatures and snow to parts of the South Island, with heavy snowfall warnings for the Desert Road and Lewis Pass and coastal swells expected.^{6 Jun 2025}

Latest

The most recent report, from 6 June, describes sub-zero temperatures and snow in parts of the South Island, with heavy snowfall warnings for the Desert Road and Lewis Pass.^{6 Jun 2025} Coastal swells were also expected as the winter system moved through the region.^{6 Jun 2025}

Key moments

1. 3 Jun 2025Cold change forecast to bring rain, wind and snow to Canterbury and Southland
2. 3 Jun 2025Orange heavy rain warnings issued as deep flow moves across the country
3. 5 Jun 2025Snow falls in Canterbury's high country and alpine passes
4. 6 Jun 2025Heavy snow and freezing temperatures hit South Island; travel and power warnings issued
5. 6 Jun 2025Polar blast brings sub-zero temperatures; heavy snowfall warnings for Desert Road and Lewis Pass

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.