Snow has closed three state highways in South Canterbury, as of 9am this morning (Wednesday).

State Highway 8 between Twizel to Fairlie, State Highway 79 between Fairlie between SH8 and Gudex Rd, and State Highway 80 - Lake Pukaki to Mount Cook are all closed due to snow, following yesterday’s wild weather.

State Highway 85, Kyeburn to Palmerston is also closed.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is reminding all central and lower South Island drivers that for the remainder of this week, the severity of the colder daytime and overnight temperatures will pose an ongoing issue for ice across the roading network, NZTA Central South Island system manager Mark Pinner says.

“Whilst our crews and gritting teams will be doing all they can, road closures will likely still occur, especially overnight and into mid-morning. 

“Please check our website before you travel and slow down on ice and gritted roads,” he says.

SH73 is now OPEN through Porters Pass. Towing is not currently permitted through the pass, and Chains are currently essential along this route.

To keep up to date with road conditions, check the road status on the NZTA live Highway Conditions Map, which will be updated with all major developments as they are received.

For updates on the status of local roads please follow Civil Defence Emergency Management Canterbury and Environment Canterbury to stay up to date.

For more info on the weather event please visit metservice.com/warnings.