Kiwi's have obsession with snow: How does NZ Topography interact with incoming snow potential?

Graph

Kiwis have a long-standing fascination with snow. Part of it is practical—skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports are a big deal—but part of it is the novelty. For much of New Zealand, winters are mild, so a heavy snow event in a town or city feels exciting and rare. Snow also inspires adventure: from sledging down hills to watching mountain peaks turn white, snow is a seasonal spectacle that captures the imagination.

New Zealand’s geography plays a huge role in how and where snow falls. The country’s Southern Alps, running along the South Island, act as a snow magnet. Moist westerly winds from the Tasman Sea hit the mountains, cool, and drop snow on the peaks and slopes. In the North Island, snow is less common but still appears in higher regions like the Central Plateau around Mount Ruapehu, Tongariro, and the Kaimanawa Ranges. Snow forms when temperatures drop close to or below 0°C and there’s enough moisture in the air. Cold southerly winds, often moving up from the Antarctic, can bring sudden winter chills and heavy snowfalls, particularly in exposed areas.

Epic Christchurch snow event in 1992

Some snow events in New Zealand’s recent history have been truly remarkable. In 1992, Southland and Otago were hit with a severe winter storm, with heavy snow and strong winds that blocked roads and left homes isolated. In August 2011, an unusual North Island snowstorm blanketed Wellington, Taupō, and even Auckland suburbs. Schools closed, traffic slowed, and Kiwis from the cities to the hills were treated to a rare winter spectacle.

July 2017 brought another memorable snowfall, particularly in Queenstown and Central Otago. Roads were blocked, vineyards were dusted in white, and the ski fields enjoyed record coverage. Skiers and locals alike celebrated, but emergency services faced challenges clearing main roads. Similarly, in 2020, a cold southerly blast caused heavy snow in the South Island high country and even lowland areas, reminding everyone that snow isn’t just for the mountains.

Conditions that create these events usually involve a mix of cold polar air meeting moist ocean air. Clear winter nights in inland areas can also produce frost or light snow. Occasionally, coastal areas see snow if the southerly blast is strong enough, giving urban Kiwis a rare opportunity to experience white streets.

While snow can disrupt life and travel, Kiwis still love it. Local councils and the MetService issue warnings to help people prepare, but the chance to see snow is always exciting. From ski slopes to city streets, snow reminds Kiwis how variable and beautiful our winters can be—and why it continues to capture our imagination year after year.