Mt Hutt

Resort Overview

Mount Hutt is located 80 kilometers west of Christchurch. There is no accommdation on snow.  Its summit reaches 2190 meters above sea level. Mount Hutt is the largest alpine ski area on the South Island of New Zealand. The views from the top of Mount Hutt are breathtaking and on a clear day you can see views right out to the Pacific Ocean.  There are many different runs on the mountain which cater to a wide range of skiers anywhere from beginner to expert. Mount Hutt is normally the first ski field in the Southern Hemisphere to open each season.

Location

Mount Hutt is located 80km (1.5 hours) west of Christchurch, which is where you are likely to land if you are flying in. Mount Hutt rises to the west of the Canterbury Plains in the South Island of New Zealand.  There is no on snow accommodation.  Methven is the closest town to stay.

Where you can stay

How to get there

The closest airport to Mt Hutt is in Christchurch 90km's away.  The first option is to hire a car from the airport for the duration of your snow trip.  The drive to the Mount Hutt can be tricky especially if it has been snowing.  Snow hires must be carried all the time.  If you are inexperienced alpine drive or don't want the hassle there are several scheduled daily services from Christchurch airport to Methven.

The road to Mount Hutt can be treacherous for inexperienced alpine drivers so Click4snow recommends catch one of the many daily transfer buses running all day to and from Methven. 

On the trail facts

Mount Hutt receives some of the deepest, lightest powder in all of New Zealand. The mountain over looks the Canterbury Plains with the Pacific Ocean in the distance. It is knows to have the longest open snow season in the Southern Hemisphere. The wide open terrain is great for first time skiers and families. Mount Hutt's new specially designed Children's Centre, Ski and Snowboard School and purpose built beginners area will for sure teach you a thing or two. Snowmaking stars in early May to ensure great snow for the whole season. At 2076 Meters, Mount Hutt has one of the largest vertical drops in the South Island. At this mountain you will get trails from the total beginner through to the pro skier/rider. For the Snowboarders there is the Up and Go Terrain Park with many rails and jumps suited for the advanced free rider. All in All, this beautiful mountain is well suited for everyone.  Exposure is the only downside of Mt Hutt so keep one eye on the weather and be prepared to wrap up.

Click4snows picks:

Après ski

The après ski properly starts down in Methven.  With a mix of quiet bar restaurants to livelier bars there is a small but friendly après ski scene to satisfy every ski and snowboarder.  In addition to après ski there are hot air balloon flights or jet river boat excursions.