Bay of Plenty Police are preparing for some icy road conditions and are encouraging drivers to be equally prepared with overnight temperatures expected to plummet following today's damp weather.

"When a clear cold day follows a day of rain, surplus moisture on the roads will freeze over and there is a high probability for black ice," says Bay of Plenty road policing manager Inspector Kevin Taylor.

"Motorists, particularly those on an early commute, will need to take extreme care on Thursday.

'Any patches on the road that appear wet will likely be ice and should be treated as such."

MetService is forecasting an overnight low of two degrees in Tauranga before a fine day with a morning frost tomorrow.

It follows snow falling at TECT All Terrain Park out on SH36 between Tauranga and Rotorua this morning.

Higher locations such as SH29 over the Kamai Ranges, SH5 through Mamaku and SH1 through the Central Plateau will be particularly susceptible to the chilly temperatures and icy patches on the road.

Gorges and roads with significant shaded areas, such as StH36 from Pyes Pa Road, Tauranga through the Mangorewa Gorge to Rotorua, and SH30 between Rotorua and Whakatane will also be high risk; as well as a number of rural roads.

Kevin says driving to the conditions is key; keeping speeds down and allowing plenty of stopping distance.

Motorists are advised to check their vehicles and tyres are roadworthy before heading off, and ensure all windows are completely clear of ice.

It is also advisable to ensure drivers carry a fully charged mobile phone and have a blanket, snacks and water on hand in case of an emergency or a breakdown.

"When your vehicle starts to slide on the ice, it is not the time to remember your tyres need replacing," says Kevin.

"Staying informed and being prepared are simple things everyone can do to potentially save lives."

The Napier/Taupo road which closed earlier today because of snow has re-opened, but drivers are warned of snow and ice and are advised to take extreme care.

Snow and ice are also down to the road on SH1 between Oruanui and Wairakei. Drivers are again warned to take extreme care and to expect winter driving conditions.

On the Desert Rd, snow showers are expected to return this evening and continue through to Friday morning. Up to 20cm of snow may accumulate on the road from tonight at 6pm until 6am on Friday.

MetService has a snow warning in place in the central and lower North Island.