State Highway 6 between Haast and Makarora in the Westland District has reopened this morning after trees came down overnight; but more rain, strong winds and potential snow may cause further disruption on South Island roads over the next couple of days.

The downed trees near Orman Falls closed SH6 overnight, but roading crews were able to clear the debris quickly after the conditions eased.

Severe gale force winds have been buffeting the central South Island since yesterday, prompting warnings to motorists – especially those with high-sided vehicles and motorcycles – to take care.

As those winds and heavy rain on the West Coast are expected to ease, MetService says a strong cold southerly flow is expected over the south on Saturday. This has the potential to bring “warning amounts of rain” to Dunedin, North Otago and about the Canterbury Plains south of Banks Peninsula.

Severe southwesterly gales are possible about Christchurch and Banks Peninsula, while there is also potential for heavy snow affecting inland Otago and/or the Canterbury high country south of the Rangitata River above about 600 metres.

With school holidays beginning from this weekend, New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi is urging motorists to plan ahead for any possible weather disruptions, especially if travelling to areas that are unfamiliar. Latest information for planning your trip can be found at our Journey Planner site.