Weather: Photos of the snowstorm aftermath

Snow settled up and down the South Island on Wednesday after a heavy snowstorm, which forced the closure of many roads, passes, and state highways - leaving some motorists stranded.

Authorities advised drivers to be cautious and avoid travel in some areas unless absolutely necessary.

The wild winter weather is expected to continue for the rest of the week.

Here are some pictures of the winter whiteout:

Canterbury, SNow
Darfield was also in a blanket of snow on Wednesday. Photo credit: Supplied
Lewis Pass, SNow
Every inch of Lewis Pass was covered in snow. Photo credit: Lee Wright
Dunedin, Snow
Paul Le Comte had no issues nipping outside in his shorts. Photo credit: Paul Le Comte
Christchurch, Snow
Roads were closed early on in Christchurch. Photo credit: Thomas Mead/ Newshub
Lewis Pass, SNow
Lewis Pass was closed for hours due to snow and ice. Photo credit: Cr Deon Swiggs
Dunedin, SNow
Snow blanketed many of the hill suburbs in Dunedin. Photo credit: Carmel Callahan
Canterbury, Snow
Snow made central Canterbury look like a winter wonderland. Photo credit: Cr Deon Swiggs
Snow, Tekapo
A car skidded off the road outside of Tekapo. Photo credit: Annabelle Tukia/ Newshub
Snow, Canterbury
Up to 60 vehicles were left stranded as state highways were closed due to snow. Photo credit: Brooke Hobson/ Newshub