Changeable weather is on the cards for the region today.

The MetService is forecasting periods of morning rain, then fine spells with one or two showers possible.

Westerly winds are expected to become gusty in the afternoon.

In Omokoroa this morning, the sun rise put on a stunning show for residents.

Sun rays were seen streaming across the sky, before rain clouds moved in.

The sunrise on Omokoroa this morning. See more photos below.

Further south, snow showers to low altitudes for southern parts of the South Island are being forecast.

A low pressure system moved across the North Island on Monday, sweeping across a band of rain, heavier and more persistent for southwestern parts with a risk of thunderstorms and strong wind gusts.

The MetService says the real kicker is the cold unstable air behind the second front, where wintery showers are expected to fall as snow to low levels: 200 metres for Southland, Clutha, and Fiordland; and 300 metres for Otago.

A Heavy Snow Warning is in place for Fiordland and a Heavy Snow Watch is in place for Southland, Clutha, and Central Otago.

The lowest snow is expected early in the morning, with the snow level set to rise throughout the day. There is also a risk of gusty thunderstorms and hail in the morning in the south and west.

Road Snow Warnings have been issued for many higher roads. Snow settling on roads can make driving hazardous.

'We're expecting this to be the lowest snow so far this year. With last week's snowfall as well, it's beginning to feel a bit like winter," says Meteorologist Dan Corrigan.

"While snowfall does bring about risk for livestock and transport, the new topping of snow will be welcomed by the ski fields in the Queenstown Lakes District in preparation for the snow season.

"Furthermore, southwesterly winds may approach severe gale in exposed places for the lower South Island from later this morning into the evening. Strong Wind Watches are in place."

Meanwhile, the first cold front quickly crosses the North Island this morning, ushering in a showery day for most, but staying mostly fine in the east.

The wild weather eases on Wednesday, with a few showers continuing in the west of both islands, and mostly clear skies in the east.

This easing trend continues into Thursday, and remaining showers clear for the North Island.

Rain moved in following the stunning sunrise.