Parts of the South Island of New Zealand are bracing for a weekend of severe weather, with MetService issuing heavy snow, rain, and wind warnings across Canterbury, Otago, and Southland. An orange heavy snow warning is in effect for Otago (excluding coastal areas) and northern Southland from Sunday morning to Monday morning, with potential for up to a meter of snow in higher elevations. Heavy rain is forecast for the ranges of Westland and other parts of the South Island, with warnings for rapid river rises, surface flooding, and slips. Additionally, a strong wind watch is in place for the Canterbury High Country, with severe northwest gales expected. On the North Island, police are cautioning motorists about icy conditions on State Highway 5 in Hawke's Bay, following minor crashes.