New Zealand

South Island: What you need to know

18:02 pm on 18 June 2015

Snow and high winds are causing disruption across the South Island. Check updates for weather, roads, schools and flights here.

A screenshot of MetService's rain radar for the South Island at 2pm. Photo: MetService

Weather

Check the latest severe weather warnings on MetService's website.

Power cuts

Aurora Energy has also warned of possible power cuts in Otago, depending on snowfall.

People are advised to have adequate food supplies and an alternative source of heating and cooking, along with warm clothing and bedding, a torch and battery radio.

Roads

At 5.30pm, eight state highways were closed because of ice, snow, frost and gales. The following highways will remain closed overnight:

  • SH 73 Springfield to Arthur's Pass (Porters Pass)
  • SH 6 Haast to Makarora
  • SH 8 Lindis Pass
  • SH 6 Fox Glacier to Haast
  • SH 94 Te Anau to Milford
  • SH 8 Omarama to Fairlie
  • SH 80 Mount Cook Highway
  • SH 79 Geraldine to Fairlie
  • NZTA has also issued a flooding warning for SH6 from the Fox Glacier to Haast in the Westland National Park.

    Check updates on the NZTA's website and Dunedin City Council's website.

    Flights

    Schools