The Desert Road remains closed this morning after a dumping of snow overnight.

The NZ Transport Agency reports the section of SH1 from Waiouru to Rangipo. is closed and there are diversions in place via State Highways 49, 4 and 47.

The Desert Road is still closed following an overnight dumping of snow.

The MetService says snow accumulations of around 900 metres were expected about the Central Plateau.

Motorists are also being advised to drive with caution on SH2 between Opotiki, in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, and Gisborne with snow on the roads creating treacherous conditions, says the NZTA.

The MetService is predicting heavy rain with a chance of thunder and gusty southeasterlies in Tauranga today.

Showers and cold southerlies are expected to continue through until Monday.

The MetService is expecting daily highs of 13 degrees with overnight lows of 7 degrees tonight.