An early winter snowfall has hit the south of the country.
Overnight hail and snow storms have caused problems in parts of Southland and South Otago.
The cold blast is being blamed for a number of road accidents and drivers are being urged to be careful.
In the southern ski resorts, the early taste of winter has ski field operators excited.
A Coronet Peak skifield spokesman says there has been a sustained period of cold weather for some days, which has been perfect for snow making, to build up the base.
Conditions look good for the 2001 ski season to start in early June.
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