We're waking up to what will be the coldest morning of the year for many regions across the country

The polar blast has seen heavy snowfall and temperatures in some parts of the South Island plunge below freezing.

NZTA closed State Highway 8 between Twizel and Fairlie, and State Highway 80 between Lake Pukaki and Aoraki/Mount Cook due to snow.

The colder temperatures are forecast to continue into tomorrow for the North Island and longer for the South.