Motorists are set to be heavily delayed today as freezing temperatures hit the road network in both the North and South Islands.
Snow has closed State Highway 5 Napier to Taupo Rd overnight, while ice has created dangerous driving conditions for motorists on SH94 from Te Anau to Knobs Flat.
Alternative routes are in place for drivers travelling between Napier and Taupo, via Palmerston North or Gisborne, but the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) warns these will add around four to five hours to the journey time.
The road was closed until further notice, it said.
It came after MetService issued a warning last night for possible heavy snow for the ranges of Gisborne and Hawkes Bay. Snow was expected to 600m or 700m overnight.
Motorists have been advised to take extra care on SH94 between Te Anau and Knobs Flat due to ice.
Meanwhile, SH 6 from Haast to Makarora (gates of Haast to Haast Pass - Diana Falls) has also been closed because of rock falls.
It will close from 5pm to 9am at the slip.
Drivers are advised to check the NZTA website before travelling.
