Snow, Ice Trigger Widespread Disruption Across NZ

News Desk

Dunedin: A powerful Antarctic cold snap has disrupted travel, education and public transport across New Zealand (NZ), with snow, sleet and freezing temperatures forcing school closures, shutting highways and prompting authorities to urge people to avoid unnecessary travel.

The severe weather brought heavy snowfall to low-lying areas of the South Island, while Wellington experienced a rare mix of sleet and snow. Weather officials confirmed that wintry precipitation reached parts of the capital, including the central business district and surrounding suburbs.

In Dunedin, icy roads led to more than 20 traffic crashes after vehicles lost control on snow-covered streets. Police said no serious injuries had been reported but warned motorists to stay off the roads unless travel was essential. 

Officials cautioned that melting snow could refreeze overnight, creating dangerous black ice conditions for the following morning.

The weather also disrupted the country’s transport network. Sections of State Highway 1 and State Highway 87 in Otago were closed due to snow and ice, while snowfall warnings remained in place for several major routes.

 Ferry services across Cook Strait were also affected by heavy swells, with multiple sailings cancelled.

Schools bore the brunt of the cold weather, with all primary, intermediate and secondary schools in Dunedin closed for the day. Several schools in neighbouring districts and numerous early childhood education centres also suspended operations or delayed opening. Public transport services in Dunedin were cancelled as authorities prioritised public safety.

The prolonged cold spell is also placing pressure on New Zealand’s electricity network. 

National grid operator Transpower said it is monitoring supply closely after forecasting record electricity demand during the icy conditions. While the company issued an industry advisory over the possibility of tight supply margins, it said there was no immediate risk to electricity supplies for consumers.

Meteorologists attributed the cold snap to frigid Antarctic air moving across the country. Although snowfall is expected to ease later this week, forecasters warned that clearing skies and lighter winds could cause temperatures to fall even further, with Thursday forecast to be one of the coldest mornings of the winter in many parts of New Zealand.

Authorities continue to advise residents to monitor weather forecasts, postpone non-essential travel and exercise extra caution on roads as freezing conditions persist.