Queenstown hit with unexpected spring snow

Snow blankets central Otago (David di Somma)
Snow blankets central Otago (David di Somma)

Queenstown has woken to a blanket of snow that has caused power outages in and around Arrowtown, Dalefield, Lower Shotover and parts of Glenorchy. 

Delta crews have been out on Wednesday morning trying to restore power to thousands of affected properties.

Queenstown hit with unexpected spring snow

Snow blankets the south (Newshub)

The snow has also brought warnings for motorists around the Central Otago region after an overnight snow dump.

Queenstown hit with unexpected spring snow

Snow has fallen in the Queenstown area (Newshub)

There has been low level snow fall in the Crown Range which hasn't closed the road but motorists are being asked to use chains as a precaution.

The Queenstown Lakes District Council say they were using snowploughs to clear roads around the Wakatipu Basin early on Wednesday morning.

The weather has also downed trees in the area, particularly around Lake Hayes, Arrowtown and Dalefield.

State Highway 8 between Omarama to Tarras was closed early on Wednesday however the road has now been re-opened.

 The New Zealand Transport Agency is urging caution on State Highway 6 between Cromwell and Queenstown.

One 7am flight out of Queenstown Airport was delayed. 

Queenstown hit with unexpected spring snow

At least one flight has been delayed at Queenstown Airport this morning (deepsouthweather.co.nz)

The snow fall isn't expected to stick around; rain and light winds are expected later in the day.

Newshub.