Lakes Camp and Clearwater near Ashburton were blanketed with snow on Friday morning. Photo: Ashburton District Council
An updated forecast from MetService has pushed back the expected start time for snowfall to sweep the South Island on Friday.
The fresh surge of winter weather was expected to descend on the South Island on Friday, bringing snow, sub-zero temperatures and the risk of travel disruption.
Central Otago had now been downgraded from an earlier heavy snow warning to a heavy snow watch starting at 2pm.
But inland Canterbury south of the Rakaia River remained under a warning, with heavy snow possible above 400 metres from 2pm.
Heavy snow watches were also in place on Friday afternoon for southern Marlborough, Queenstown Lakes District, and the rest of inland Canterbury.
A strong wind watch was in effect for Westland District from 6pm.
Snow flurries had already been recorded earlier on Friday in the Mackenzie Country and Queenstown.
Lakes Camp and Clearwater looked stunning after heavy snowfall. Photo: Ashburton District Council
Ashburton District Council said late Friday afternoon the Gorge Road was now closed at Mount Somers township because of snow.
"If you're planning to travel this weekend, please pay attention to the weather forecast and drive to the conditions."
Meanwhile, Cook Strait ferries were being cancelled this weekend due to forecast 6m swells.
Interislander had canned all passenger sailings for Saturday due to the conditions.
"All passengers are being moved to alternative sailings," it said on its website.
Cook Strait ferries are being cancelled this weekend due to forecast swells. Photo: Supplied
Bluebridge had also cancelled all Saturday sailings, and one in the early hours of Sunday morning.
"We are monitoring the situation closely, and if further sailings are impacted, we will notify you via text and email at the earliest opportunity," the operator told customers.
The MetService said waves could reach swells of 6m on Saturday, with a warning lasting to Sunday morning.
Wellington Region Emergency Management said the 6m swells could bring flooding and debris onto roads around high tide.
An orange swell warning was in place on Wellington's south coast through to coastal Wairarapa.
It said drivers and walkers on coastal roads, as well as surfers, divers and fishers, should take extra care.
More to come.
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