Heavy snowfall blankets New Zealand's South Island

Heavy rain warnings and snowfall may disrupt travel and damage powerlines as the South Island braces for another cold blitz.

MetService warned heavy snow from overnight and carrying into this morning, at Central Otago, Southland and Fiordland, may disrupt travel and could damage trees and powerlines.

The cold conditions may also cause stress for livestock, MetService said on its website.

The weather agency stated snowfall may hit warning amounts above 500m in inland Dunedin and North Otago.

Fiordland, Westland south of Otira and Otago Headwaters and Canterbury Lakes and rivers are also expecting heavy rain today.

The rainfall may cause streams and rivers to rise rapidly, according to MetService.

Surface flooding and slips are also possible and driving conditions may be hazardous.