Motorists are being urged to prepare for winter driving conditions as snow and severe winds start to batter both the North and South Island.
MetService has issued a number of warnings and watches right across the country with bitterly cold temperatures, snow, ice and rain set to make driving conditions hazardous.
Cold temperatures and snow is forecast for parts of the South Island and higher parts of the Desert Rd on Monday evening and Tuesday.
Strong winds are expected in the Wairarapa, south of Napier in Hawke's Bay and the southwest coast of Wellington.
Heavy rainfall is also predicted for central North Island's Napier to Taupo Road (SH5) and Desert Road (SH1), as well as Remutaka Hill Road (SH2) in Wellington, Lewis Pass (SH7), Arthur's Pass (SH73), Lindis Pass (SH8), Crown Range Road, Milford Road (SH94), and the Dunedin to Waitati Highway (SH1).
Police are recommending drivers stay off the roads during these severe weather conditions. If travel is necessary they advise motorists to allow extra time for their journey and to check the Waka Kotahi (NZ Transport Agency) website for closures.
"Roads can become icy and slick when it's cold so remember to increase the following distance between you and the car in front to ensure you have enough time to stop safely," police say in a statement.
"When you're on a wet, icy, or snowy road, it's important not to brake suddenly or to accelerate quickly, as you could aquaplane or skid."
Waka Kotahi encourages motorists to be prepared for every scenario when driving in hazardous conditions.
"Make sure you have a safe spare tyre, your lights, brakes and windscreen-wipers are all working, and you have a clean windscreen inside and out," Waikato system manager Cara Lauder says.
"Ensure your cell phone is well charged and carry a car phone charger or power bank. Blankets, snacks and bottles of water are also a good idea, in case of an emergency or breakdown."
Lauder says drivers can also prepare by ensuring their cars are roadworthy and safe.
Police say motorists should plan to drive during daylight hours as at night "hazards rapidly multiply".
"Plan to drive in the middle of the day or in daylight hours, when visibility is better and ice and snow are less likely to be on the road.
"In these situations, more than ever, driving to the conditions is crucial. Slow down to arrive alive."
More information on closures and severe weather can be found here:
