Most of the highways are now open in the centre North Island say NZTA.

The majority of State Highways, except for State Highway 1 Desert Road where snow clearing work is continuing have been cleared.

NZTA spokesperson Karen Boyt says freezing temperatures are expected in the Central Plateau overnight.

'If you are travelling over the weekend you should drive to the conditions and expect to see crews working on the roads.”

'Now that there is a way through the central North Island a lot of people will be trying to use the roads so everybody should also be patient.”

She says people travelling this weekend should allow extra time, ensure their vehicle is safe for winter driving and drive to the road and weather conditions.

State Highway 5 Napier-Taupo Road is now open. A slip remains in the gorge and work is continuing to clear it. The road in the gorge will be down to one lane and have a reduced speed limit in place.

SH49 from Waiouru to SH4 intersection is open. This restores access to Ohakune. Please drive to winter conditions.

SH1 Waiouru to Hunterville is open. Please drive to winter conditions.

State Highway 1 from Hunterville to Waiouru is open.

State Highway 1 Desert Road snow and ice clearing work is continuing on.

When it does open the road will be down to one lane at Waihohonu Bridge.

An earlier crash has damaged the bridge and urgent repair work is needed.

State Highway 46 and State Highway 47 Rangipo to National Park are now open but road users are advised to take extra care because of the snow on the road.

SH2 Waioeka Gorge now has one lane open. The road was closed after a slip last Friday.