Author(s): The Press

NZ Non Fiction

On 12 June 2006, a massive snow storm hit the Canterbury region bringing havoc and hardship to nearly half a million people. Snow Storm: The South Island's Big Chill captures unique images from one of the most severe weather events in the region for over 30 years. For weeks, farmers struggled to feed their stock, families were without power, telecommunications went down, businesses suffered and transport routes closed. Despite this, Cantabrians overcame the challenges brought by the snow's ferocious power. This snow storm was the worst in many places since the Great Snow of 1945. It will be remembered for many things: its widespread coverage, its suddenness and its depth. But it will also be remembered for the way people banded together and acted with kindness and generosity. Snow Storm: The South Island's Big Chill contains fascinating meteorological data as well as striking photographs taken by photographers from The Press and The Timaru Herald. They catalogue the difficulties and dangers of the storm as well as the glorious beauty of it - this is the prefect souvenir of a time that will remain large in the minds of all Cantabrians. First published July 2006.