Good news for skiers with heavy snow predicted for the MacKenzie Basin, Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes today.

An active front, preceded by strong northwesterlies, moves eastwards across New Zealand today, bringing heavy rain to western areas and possible heavy snow to 800 metres to Central Otago and the MacKenzie Basin.

Warnings and watches have been issued by the MetService for heavy rain, heavy snow, and strong winds across much of the country.

A heavy snow watch is in place for Central Otago, northwest of Alexandra, including Queenstown Lakes and the MacKenzie Basin for the six hours from 9am to 3pm today (Monday, July 1). A period of heavy snow above 800 metres is predicted, where snowfall amounts may approach warning criteria.

Meanwhile in the Canterbury High Country northwest winds may approach severe gale in exposed places today.

People are advised to keep up to date with the latest forecasts in case further areas are added, or watches are upgraded to warnings.