It's a cold start to the weekend for those in the Otago and Canterbury areas

Heavy snow watches are in place with snowfall above 600 metres possible for the Southern Lakes, and Central Otago, and 500 metres for the Canterbury High Country.

MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane says those travelling in these regions will need to be careful.

Makgabutlane says there are also heavy snow fall warnings covering high level mountain roads.

Caution is being advised over Haast, Porters and Lindis Pass, as well as Milford and Crown Range Roads.