Police in the Wellington District are warning drivers to make essential travel only tonight, as snowfalls make driving conditions extremely dangerous.

Inspector Ken Climo of the Police Central Communications Centre says a number of roads in and around the District are currently closed. These include the Rimutaka Hill Road, Paekakariki Hill Road and Blue Mountains Road, Upper Hutt.

"Traffic lights are out across the Hutt Valley and there are reports of power outages in Wainuiomata, however the Wainuiomata Hill Road remains open."

Inspector Climo says State Highway 58 (Haywards Hill) is passable but extreme caution is needed and there are reports of snowfalls on State Highway Two (River Road) and Stokes Valley, making driving conditions extremely dangerous.

"If you need to make essential travel this evening, make sure you are equipped with food, warm clothing and blankets for all occupants, in case you cannot return to your destination this evening, given the extreme weather conditions."

Motorists are also reporting very poor visbility due to snow and ice on windscreens so winter driving conditions are required.

Inspector Climo says drivers need to take it slowly and steady to ensure they make it to their destination safely and in one piece.

ENDS

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