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Police are urging holidaymakers to drive home with care this afternoon as weather conditions worsen and with the holiday road toll already at two.

One person died in a single-vehicle crash around 2.45am on Sunday on Mataku Rd in Morrinsville.

Police said the person was found dead at the scene and the Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination.

A second person died in a motorcycle crash on Waiheke Island later that same day.

Police said emergency services were called to Ocean View Rd in Oneroa about 2pm Sunday after a three-wheeled motorbike hit a tree.

“One person died at the scene,” police said, “while another was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries”.

Hato Hone St John said two helicopters and one ambulance were sent to the scene about 1.55pm and one patient was airlifted to Auckland City Hospital in a serious condition.

Weather conditions are expected to worsen and cause disruption later today.

Police are urging motorists heading home to plan ahead.

“Depending on where you are in New Zealand, road conditions could be impacted by high winds, rain, or even snow.

• 'Take extra care': Holidaymakers urged to keep up with forecast as bad weather nears

“We know people will be eager to get home but it’s really important that people adjust their driving to the weather conditions, even if it means a slightly longer trip.”

MetService has warned that heavy rain, strong winds and snow are expected for much of the country with several warnings in place.

Heavy rain watches have been issued for the eastern ranges of Bay of Plenty, the central North Island hill country from southern Waikato to Tongariro National Park, Taranaki Maunga, Tararua Range and the Richmond and Bryant ranges for this afternoon, with some extending into Tuesday.

Wellington, Wairarapa and the Tararua District and Marlborough, about and north of Cape Campbell also have strong wind warnings in place for this afternoon.

In the South Island, there are some areas under a heavy snow warning, including the Canterbury high country south of SH73, Queenstown Lakes District about and north of Wānaka, and Central Otago about and north of Ranfurly from 1pm to 10pm.

“As always, it’s the basics that will help keep everyone safe,” police said, “watch your speed, put your phone away, wear your seatbelt, and don’t drive if you’re impaired (including by fatigue).”

They also encouraged motorists to check the NZTA website before travel for updates on road conditions.