A rare snowfall covered the capital of New Zealand for the first time in 15 years.

Unusual weather phenomena have occurred in New Zealand, where a rare snowfall surprised locals after 15 years. In Wellington, the capital of the country, the snow covered the streets, and people went out with their skis to enjoy this spectacle.

Temperatures dropped drastically, reaching -9°C in three locations on the South Island, which led authorities to close several highways due to ice. Strong hailstorms affected the east coast of the North Island. Enthusiastic reactions from citizens flooded social media, with many comparing the snowfall to a winter fairy tale.

Students in Dunedin took advantage of the opportunity, turning the slopes into ski areas, including Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world. Meteorologists forecast a slight increase in daytime temperatures, but a sharp drop overnight, with the coldest atmosphere of the year expected on Thursday morning.