The north of the country narrowly escaped tornadoes during a cold front which brought thunderstorms to the North Island while snowfalls have closed South Island roads.
The MetService said today that the front whistled across the northern area without delivering potentially damaging weather, including a strong risk of tornadoes.
The front from the west had become fragmented as it crossed Northland and Auckland last night before becoming more organised as it moved across to the east.
Meanwhile, after multiple road closures overnight Thursday snow continued to fall in the South Island tonight.
State Highway 6 near Haast and SH8 between Omarama and Tarras were closed early tonight, the Automobile Association reported.
Cautions were in place on SH7 between Junction SH7 and SH7A (Hanmer Turnoff) and Springs Junction, SH8 at Burkes Pass, SH73 between Arthurs Pass and Otira and SH6 between Haast and Makarora.
Snow showers which closed the Desert Road had cleared.
Police advised motorists to make sure their vehicle was in a good condition for driving, with windows clear and tyres with sufficient tread.
Acting Traffic Senior Sergeant Stephen Burgerhout said motorists must drive to conditions and be aware of changing conditions.
Drivers should heed road warnings and increase their following distances.
Meanwhile, three schools in the Cromwell township and others in Alexandra and Omakau were closed on what is the last day of the term.
The MetService said snow showers were possible on Lewis Pass and Porters Pass, but snow was unlikely to accumulate on the road.
Snow was expected on Arthurs Pass tonight and tomorrow morning above 800 metres with one to two centimetres accumulating near the summit overnight.
On Milford Road, snow showers were likely above 700 metres between the Holyford Turnoff and the Homer Tunnel, with up to five centimetres of snow possible on roads tonight.
Snow showers were also possible tonight and tomorrow morning on Lindis Pass above 600 metres.
