Motorists are being urged to take extra care on highways across the Mackenzie Basin as snow creates hazardous driving conditions.

NZ Transport Agency has issued area warnings for State Highway 8 between Fairlie and Tekapo, including Burkes Pass, and State Highway 80 between Glentanner and Mount Cook Village.

Drivers are being advised to reduce their speed, increase following distances and avoid sudden braking or turning movements.

They should also use their headlights and remain as visible as possible.

State Highway 73 remains closed between Springfield and Otira, including Arthur’s Pass, because of heavy snow.

Between 15 and 25 centimetres of snow had fallen from Porters Pass through to Craigieburn Cutting earlier on Thursday, with roading crews assessing conditions and working to clear the route.

Area warnings also remain in place for surface flooding on State Highway 6 between Haast and Fox Glacier, and from Lake Wahapo, near Whataroa, to Harihari on the West Coast.

Motorists are being encouraged to check the latest conditions on the NZTA Journey Planner before travelling.