Snow hits rural Gisborne, colder nights forecast ahead

MetService meteorologist John Law said a combination of “a feed of cold air from the south and a steady stream of showers running up the eastern coast” had brought snow to the higher parts of Tairāwhiti.

He said wet conditions could be expected.

Emerson Ribbon enjoys the snow at Wharerata Lookout, along State Highway 2, on Wednesday. Photo / Evie Ribbon

“Today [Wednesday], we’ll continue to see showers moving into the region, with the chance of some hail in the mix. There could still be some flurries of snow over the highest ranges this morning (above about 500m) but, as we head through the day, these are expected to turn to rain.”

Snow on the hills at Tahunga, Gisborne District. Photo / Tegan Langlands

Showers overnight and into tomorrow morning were expected to be confined to the coast, with sunny weather emerging across most of the region in the afternoon.

“While it stays a little cloudier and windier today, our daytime temperatures in Gisborne will struggle to get out of single figures and overnight lows of 4C are forecast.”

Horses covered up at Tahunga, Gisborne District. Photo / Tegan Langlands

He said Thursday night could see temperatures drop further.

“With clearer skies and lighter winds, the temperature is likely to drop down below freezing and is likely to be our coldest night of the year so far.

Dave Phillips snapped this picture of snow at Ūawa, Gisborne District. Photo / Dave Phillips

“With cold conditions and wet roads, there is the chance of some frosty and icy roads so take extra time and care on the roads, especially during the night and early mornings.”

Three vehicles slipped on black ice along State Highway 2, in the Whareratas, and crashed last month.