Wind gusts of up to 72km/h, a low of 5 degrees celcius and sporadic showers may not be ideal, but Whanganui is getting off lightly compared to other areas as a cold blast moves its way up the country.
KiwiRail has cancelled ferry sailings, and flights in and out of Christhchurch have been delayed. Snow is falling in Hawkes Bay and Ohakune.
Interislander general manager of operations Mark Thompson said today's 2.45pm and 5pm sailings from Wellington and the 6.45pm sailing from Picton have been cancelled. Sailings are expected to resume on Friday morning, depending on the weather, he said.
The MetService has extended heavy snow warnings to include the Manawatu ranges and Taumarunui as the "significant" winter storm bears down on the centre of the country.
The New Zealand Transport Agency says South Island roads are in a treacherous state and the safest place for vehicles is in the garage. It's also worried about travel through the central North Island with heavy snow expected to fall on the Napier-Taupo Rd.
Snow has already forced the closure of the Desert Rd.
"If you are able to, postpone your journey," said agency journey manager Lee Wright.
Whanganui is forecasted to drop to four degree celcius overnight with more rain expected tomorrow. Winds should ease.