Snow is forecast for parts of the South Island today after a chilly night for much of the country.
MetService meteorologist Andrew James said the coldest overnight temperatures in the North Island were -6.5C in Eastern Rangitaiki and -2.4C in Masterton.
In the South Island, the temperature in Tekapo dropped to -5.8C and -5.6C in Mt Cook.
James said the cold snap was due to rigid air moving in from the Southern Ocean.
"[This] means there is a meaning cold start to the night, and with largely cloud free skies what little warmth remains in the ground can radiate out very quickly."
He added: "Cold continues through this week, along with some snow too — a front brings colder air tonight along with a decent dose of moisture."
Heavy snow watches have been been issued for parts of Buller, Canterbury, Marlborough, Otago, Fiordland and Southland.
A number of road snow fall warnings are also in place for parts of both islands.
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