
A powerful polar blast has swept across New Zealand, bringing snowfall even to low-lying areas, causing road closures, schools and the disruption of ferry services.
According to the New Zealand Herald, snow has fallen in parts of the South Island, while a cold weather system has swept across the country.
Police have urged Dunedin residents to avoid all but essential travel due to snow and ice on the roads. Authorities have also issued snow warnings for several major roads.
The severe weather has also affected the learning process. All primary, secondary and kindergarten schools in the Dunedin, Mosgiel, Port Chalmers and Waikouaiti areas have been closed for today. East Otago High School in Palmerston has also been closed.
Weather conditions have also worsened in the Cook Strait, which separates the North Island from the South Island. Strong winds have forced ferry companies to cancel trips.
Interislander has cancelled four sailings between Wellington and Picton, while Bluebridge has suspended all six crossings scheduled for today, as well as two services scheduled for Wednesday morning.
The MetService has issued a high tide warning for the Wairarapa coast, south of Ngawi, with waves of up to 6 metres expected until the early hours of Wednesday.