New Zealand rare snowfall in Wellington

An Antarctic cold front swept across New Zealand in early August 2026, driving temperatures down to as low as –10.6 °C. On 4 August, Wellington experienced snowfall for the first time in 15 years, prompting surprise and social‑media buzz. The same system brought a winter storm to Dunedin, where schools were closed and residents took to skis and snowboards on streets, including the world’s steepest road, Baldwin Street. Police warned of icy conditions after more than 20 crashes and temporarily shut several state highways. The national grid recorded a historic peak in electricity demand, raising concerns about supply shortfalls.

By 6 August, the cold snap persisted, with the Rangipo Desert stretch of State Highway 1 recording the coldest temperature of –10.6 °C. The New Zealand MetService continued to monitor the event, and international media highlighted the rarity of snowfall in the capital. The situation remained focused on public safety, travel restrictions, and the strain on the power system as the unusual weather lingered.