Lewis Pass has reopened after being closed due to snow on Friday morning.

The NZTA closed State Highway 7, between Hanmer Springs and Springs Junction, following a snow alert issued at 8:35 AM. The road was reopened at 10:30 AM.

MetService had issued a snow warning for the Lewis Pass, effective until 11:00 AM, predicting snow showers above 800 metres with 1 to 2 cm of accumulation.

A strong wind watch is also in effect for the Canterbury High Country from 1:00 AM until 3:00 PM on Saturday. MetService said northwest winds could reach severe gale strength in exposed areas, with a moderate chance of upgrading the alert to a warning.