Antarctic cold snap sweeps New Zealand's South Island, shuts roads and schools

An Antarctic polar blast brought a rare dusting of snow to sea level across New Zealand's South Island on Tuesday. The icy temperatures and snowfall forced road closures and disrupted schools, particularly in Dunedin, the island's second-largest city.

Police reported multiple crashes across Dunedin as drivers struggled with icy roads, though no injuries were reported. Residents were urged to avoid unnecessary travel. Meanwhile, skiers and snowboarders took advantage of the unusual conditions, descending Baldwin Street, famously known as the world's steepest residential street.

Further north, snow was visible on the sand at Christchurch's New Brighton Beach. While snowfall is uncommon at sea level in Dunedin, its hill suburbs occasionally receive snow during severe cold outbreaks. The disruption extended to transportation, with all city bus services cancelled and ferry services between the North and South Islands suspended due to strong winds and heavy swells.

New Zealand's weather bureau, MetService, forecasts the cold outbreak to persist for another two days, with snow or sleet possible near sea level across the eastern South Island. Thursday morning is expected to bring the coldest temperatures of the year for many parts of the country.

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Police have received a number of reports of crashes across Dunedin this morning, with some vehicles sliding off the road. Thankfully, there have been no injuries.