Spring is on the way but not without winter taking its last final bite as a cold southerly snap moves across the country.

Tauranga's daily highs are expected to remain above the 15 degree mark, while overnight lows are predicted to plummet to four to nine degrees, according to the MetService.

A cold snap is about to grip the country.

Rain is also on the cards for the city tomorrow with showers forecast through until Thursday.

'This dramatic southerly change will sweep northwards during Wednesday, covering much of New Zealand by day's end,” says media and communications meteorologist Dan Corbett.

'Snow is expected to gall to low levels about southern to eastern parts of the South and lower North Islands.”

He says significant snow accumulations are expected to be limited to the ranges and higher level roads of both islands, including the Central Plateau and Rimutaka Hill Road.

'This sharp cold wintry blast will be challenging for farmers in the midst of lambing, with the risk of snow down to low levels and extreme wind chills.

'Snow is likely to cause disruption to traffic, especially about the higher level roads of both islands.”