Rare snowfall sent New Zealanders onto city streets with skis and snowboards on Wednesday after an Antarctic cold snap swept across the country, bringing snow, hail, and freezing temperatures. Europeans, meanwhile, continue to reel from record temperatures amid a prolonged heatwave.

Wellington, New Zealand’s capital, recorded its first significant snow and sleet for the first time in 15 years. Videos showed office workers gathering at windows and stepping outside to watch the snowfall.

In Dunedin, near the southeastern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, videos posted online showed residents skiing and snowboarding through snow-covered streets, including Baldwin Street, recognized as one of the steepest streets in the world.

Snow also covered parts of New Brighton Beach in Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island, leaving a rare white layer beside the Pacific Ocean.

Temperatures at several South Island locations fell to around -9C as cold air moved north from Antarctica. New Zealand’s weather service warned that some areas could experience their coldest morning of the year.

The weather also caused disruption. Vehicles slid off icy highways, some schools dismissed pupils early, roads were closed, and police advised against unnecessary travel. Strong winds and poor visibility also affected flights at Christchurch Airport.

The cold snap comes as much of Europe, in contrast, has endured a severe summer heatwave, with temperatures rising above 40C and prompting governments to issue the highest-level weather alerts, restrict outdoor work, and open emergency cooling centers.

The prolonged heat and drought have fueled major wildfires across the continent, forcing mass evacuations, destroying homes, and burning hundreds of thousands of hectares. Low river levels have also disrupted shipping and energy production, while transport networks and public services have struggled under the extreme conditions.