The Desert Road has been closed due to snow falls during the last 24 hours while motorists being warned to drive with caution as a fresh dusting of snow is expected to fall overnight.

NZ Transport Agency's state highway operations manager Karen Boyt says wet and icy road conditions are expected with more snow tonight.

Snow is falling on Mount Ruapehu and motorists are being warned to drive with care on the Desert Road.

Drivers are being asked to adjust their speed when travelling through the area.

'Driving is much more challenging when the road is slippery, travelling at a lower speed and ensuring greater travelling distance when following another vehicle will ensure you get to your destination safely.”

Karen says the Desert Road has been closed and advises drivers to check whether their travel routes are open before they set off on their journey.

She says drivers should also check their vehicle before to ensure it is safe for travelling on wet and icy road conditions.

'Check your tyres, brakes, windscreen wipers, lights and steering and ensure your vehicle has a current Warrant of Fitness.”

While the snow blanket is producing warning for motorists, the recent dusting means the 2013 ski season opening is all set for June 29.

Mt Ruapehu is blanketed in snow following the cold snap in the last day, says Mt Ruapehu operations general manager Chris Thrupp.

Snow is covering the upper mountain and has fallen to 800 metres at the National Park on the Whakapapa side and in Ohakune on the Turoa side.

Snow continues to fall, with more forecast to arrive throughout the week.

Chris says the Mt Ruapehu team is gearing up for the season starting on Saturday, June 29.

'Winter has well and truly landed, and it's awesome to see. There is about 10cm of snow at the base area of the mountain and around 20cm on our upper slopes. We also estimate there will be upwards of 25cm stashes of snow in places up the top.

'We're experiencing a very timely pre-winter storm and a promising change in the weather systems. Its perfect weather for snowmaking, and the snow guns are firing at Happy Valley, Whakapapa's beginner area.”

Chris says the cold temperatures mean they will be able to continue making snow later into the week which is what they need leading in to the winter season.

'It's an incredible sight when the clouds roll away to reveal Mt Ruapehu covered in snow, from top to bottom.”

Mt Ruapehu customer relations manager Annah Dowsett says the communication channels are red-hot with Mr Ruapehu customers excited to hear more news of the snowfall.

'Whether you want to experience the snow for the first time this winter, or are a regular at the mountain, get ready for some serious fun at Mt Ruapehu this season.”