South Islanders are expected to feel the full brunt of winter over the next 24 hours

Severe weather warnings are in place across the country - with road snow fall warnings issued for the South Island around Milford road, Lindis Pass and the Crown Range.

NIWA meteorologist Ben Noll says those on higher elevation roads could encounter treacherous travel conditions.

Noll says travellers should bare that in mind, and while there's not expected to be tremendous amounts of snow on the pass roads, it's something ski fields will be happy to see.

Blustery conditions off the coast of Auckland have caused the cancellation of all ferries to Rangitoto Island.