Winter-like rain, wind and brief snow to hit New Zealand school holiday start

MetService warns that the start of the school holidays in New Zealand will be marked by unsettled weather, shifting from recent blue-sky conditions to rain, strong winds and a brief period of heavy snow. Meteorologist Lewis Ferris said Friday and Saturday will bring showers that are unlikely to cause major disruption, while Sunday will see the worst of the system, with heavy rain advancing up the South Island and crossing to the North Island in the afternoon.

A short, intense snowfall is forecast for Central Otago, Southern Lakes and the Mackenzie Country, and northwesterly winds will strengthen around Cook Strait and in parts of Hawke’s Bay, potentially affecting travel on mountain passes and exposed roads. Ferris advised motorists to exercise caution, especially those on motorcycles or campervans. The unsettled spell is expected to be brief, with high pressure from the Tasman Sea bringing calmer conditions from Monday onward, though occasional showers may linger in the south and west of the South Island and a frosty morning is possible.