Motorists are being urged to keep an eye on road conditions over the coming days, with the wintry weather conditions expected to continue.

Snow and ice are affecting Canterbury highways today (Tuesday), with State Highway 80 from Lake Pukaki to Mount Cook closed due to snow as of lunchtime, while SH8 from Fairlie to Tekapo (through Burkes Pass) and Tekapo to Pukaki, are both back open after being closed earlier in the day, New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Central South Island system manager Mark Pinner says.

Given the volume of snow falling and potential for icy roads, the Mt Cook highway could remain closed overnight tonight.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is encouraging drivers to keep themselves updated on snow and ice conditions in the lower and central South Island and throughout the week.

Burkes Pass summit earlier on Tuesday, from the grit truck: Photo: supplied

Meanwhile in Otago, State Highway 85, Palmerston to Kyeburn closed before 9am this morning, and remains closed.  Keep updated here.

• It is snowing on the Lindis Pass, between Omarama and Tarras (State Highway 8) is currently catching snow but remains open with electronic signs warning drivers of the need to take care, slow down and also slow down when driving on a gritted road. 
• Cold and slippery winter driving conditions mean that drivers coming in and out of Dunedin over the Leith Saddle on SH1 from Waitati also need to take care, especially in the mornings.

“In South Canterbury we have seven crews busy gritting and clearing snow today,” Mark says.

“We have additional resources on standby around the central and lower South Island as the forecast is for snow to continue to around 2am tomorrow/Wednesday morning. The alpine passes between Canterbury and the West Coast could catch snow from midday today into Wednesday.

“People should be aware that there will be travel and route changes in coming days as once the snow stops, very low temperatures could also cause issues with a return to the black ice of earlier in July.”

At this stage Arthur’s Pass/ Porters Pass (SH73) and the Lewis Pass (SH7) are open, although snow could affect them from this afternoon into Wednesday, Mark says. 

NZTA offers tips for safer journeys this winter

• Drive slower than you normally would – it only takes a split second to lose control in wet or icy conditions.
• Avoid sudden braking or turning movements that could cause you to skid.
• Accelerate smoothly and brake gently.
• Use your highest gear when travelling uphill and your lowest downhill.
• For vehicles without anti-skid braking systems, to avoid skidding or sliding, smoothly pump the brake pedal in short bursts rather than pressing long and hard.
• Drive at a safe travelling distance because it takes longer to stop on slippery roads.
• In winter, especially in frosty or icy weather, double the two-second rule to four seconds and leave a safe distance between you and the car you’re following.
• When travelling in fog, rain or snow, drive with your lights dipped for increased safety.
• Make sure everyone is wearing their seat belt throughout the full journey.
• Plan your trip to avoid the coldest times of the day or night if you can.