Antarctic cold front blankets New Zealand's South Island with sea-level snow, halting transport and schools

On August 4 an Antarctic cold snap swept across New Zealand’s South Island, delivering snow at sea level in locations such as Dunedin and Christchurch’s New Brighton Beach. Police in Dunedin urged residents to avoid travel after multiple vehicles lost traction, but no injuries occurred. City bus routes were halted and ferry services between the North and South islands were suspended due to strong winds and heavy swells.

Schools on the island were shut as the weather disrupted daily routines. Enthusiastic skiers and snowboarders seized the opportunity, even descending Baldwin Street, famed as the world’s steepest residential road. MetService forecast that the cold outbreak will continue for the next two days, potentially bringing the year’s lowest temperatures by the morning of August 6.