The risk of avalanches is on the rise with predictions a cold southerly change could bring heavy snowfall to parts of the country.
Aoraki/Mount Cook and Lake Pukaki in the South Island. (file photo) Photo: 123RF
MetService has predicted a change tomorrow night could bring significant snowfall above 600m in the South Island.
A heavy snow watch was issued for the Kaikōura ranges, Canterbury High Country and foothills, Central Otago, Southern Lakes and inland parts of Southland from 3am Tuesday to Wednesday afternoon.
The Avalanche Advisory issued alerts for dangerous conditions for Aoraki/Mt Cook, Wanaka and Fiordland.
Warnings for heightened avalanche risk were in place for Tongariro, Arthur's Pass, Ōhau and Two Thumbs.
The Advisory said people should consider letting the weather settle before entering avalanche terrain.