Avalanche risk moves to high

The Department of Conservation has warned of a high avalanche risk in mountainous areas of Fiordland this weekend.

Snow at high levels followed by forecast warm rain is expected to create instability in the snow pack, DOC's acting area manager in Te Anau, Beth Masser, said.

"The public are advised not to go into avalanche prone areas. This includes the alpine sections of the Milford, Routeburn and Kepler tracks," she said.

"The good news for trampers is that this weather should help reduce snow loadings and hopefully mean these tracks will be all go for the start of the tramping season on October 23."

- NZPA