Hail, sleet and snow is falling in parts of Canterbury this morning.

Metservice is expecting showers about Banks Peninsula with possible thunderstorms and snow to near sea level.

Snow is expected to lower to near sea level, and may be heavy at times across Canterbury Plains north of Rakaia River and Kaikoura south of Clarence River.

Due to slippery conditions on Dyers Pass Road the overnight, road works closure is still in place.

NZTA said “with snow falling we are unsure at this stage how long this will remain closed.”

Due to a snow, State Highway 7 is closed between Reefton and Hanmer Springs.

There are no detours available and SH 7 between Springs Junction to Reefton is also closed because of snow.

SH 85 Kyeburn to Waynes is closed due to heavy snow.

SH 8 Tarras to Omarama (Lindis Pass) is closed due to Snow and ice.

SH 6 Haast to Hawea – the road is closed due to snow. State Highway 8 is closed between Roxburgh and Alexandra.

Hurunui District Council Road Safety Coordinator Dean Eades said although the storm though maybe only short lived, it will be intense with high winds, snow and the inevitable wind chill factor which can be a significant concern for farmers.

“With the high wind levels in mind, driving around Hurunui district today should happen with much caution, and avoided where possible. High sided vehicles (trucks, campervans & caravans) must be driven/moved with exceptional care.”