A cold snap has hit the South Island, bringing rain and snow.
The worst of the snow was in Canterbury and it caused a few headaches for traffic.
It's not officially winter yet, but the South Island is dealing with its first big snowfalls of the year.
Burkes Pass in south Canterbury's Mackenzie Country was buried in the white stuff early this morning. Although the road was open, motorists were worried.
The road remained open, but not to towing vehicles. An empty milk tanker got stuck going uphill.
Residents were left cleaning up after the snow started to ease.
"Just clearing it so people don't fall over walking into the gallery, because I'll be flat out today," said Burkes Pass resident Julie Greig.
Heavy rain caused some flooding issues in Timaru.
"In 25 years, this is the worst it's ever been," said Timaru resident Wayne Doyle. "We've seen some floods down here but this is incredible, just ruthless; it won't stop."
Further north through the mountain passes, the snow also hit hard. Livestock were searching for food and tourists were enjoying the view.
"It's brilliant, yeah, love it," said Australian tourist Gavin Dunlop. "She [baby] saw her first snow, so had a little bit of a touch."
But it was quickly apparent not all tourists like snow.
"No, no, not for me -- I think there's a better way to see Arthur's Pass," said tourist Alex Sepschat.
The heaviest snowfalls in Arthur's Pass and in Porters Pass fell in the early hours of this morning, but contractors have worked hard to keep the roads open throughout the day although they are icy -- but vehicles must carry chains.
The snow has eased now, but given winter doesn't actually start until next week, there'll be plenty more to come.
Newshub.
