Worst of cold snap over

Canterbury escaped the worst of an expected cold snap, with only a light dusting of snow on some of the alpine passes.

MetService meteorologist Amy Rossiter said a cold front expected to bring rain, snow and hail passed through Canterbury between 2am and 4am on Wednesday.

Arthur's Pass received a light dusting of snow overnight and all alpine passes are open.

She said showers are expected to ease throughout the day before the weather becomes fine.

Another cold front is expected to come through on Thursday and could bring rain and hail for the Canterbury high country.

Christchurch, Kaikoura and Ashburton are expected to reach a high of 12 deg C on Wednesday while Thursday will see more rain after a southwest change in the morning.