Mount Hutt Skifield

Photo provided by Camilla Stoddart/Ski Area - NZSki Ltd
Photo provided by Mt Hutt Skifield - NZ Ski Ltd - Tony Harrington
Photo provided by Mt Hutt Skifield - NZ Ski Ltd - Tony Harrington
Photo provided by Mt Hutt Skifield - NZ Ski Ltd - Tony Harrington
Photo provided by Mt Hutt Skifield - NZ Ski Ltd - Tony Harrington


Hit the slopes at one of New Zealand’s largest ski areas, which is best known for its long season and gorgeous surrounding scenery.

Mount Hutt Ski Field features one of the longest vertical drops in New Zealand’s South Island and some of the region’s finest snow conditions. The ski season generally lasts from June to October, making it among the longest seasons in the Southern Hemisphere. Bring the family to explore one of the country’s most varied ski fields and take advantage of kid-friendly discounts and facilities.

Spanning 900 acres (365 hectares), the ski field is positioned inside an inactive volcano within the eastern rim of the Southern Alps and is filled with a mix of zigzag runs and steep drops. It overlooks picturesque Canterbury Plains and the Pacific Ocean. The highest point is 6,843 feet (2,086 metres) and the vertical drop is 2,126 feet (648 metres), among the longest in the region. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, try your skills on the varied and challenging slopes.

The field encompasses two beginner and nearly 40 intermediate and advanced runs. Warm up with the wide, groomed beginner runs or take on the challenging black diamond runs on the mountain’s south face. Freestyle skiers should investigate the exceptional terrain parks, which include an International Ski Federation-certified halfpipe.

Bring your children between 2 and 5 years old to participate in Skiwiland crèche, which provides indoor childcare and ski lessons. Enrol your older children under 15 in the special Kea club ski school.

There are no accommodation on the Mount Hutt Ski Field, so most visitors choose to stay in nearby Methven, a 35-minute drive away. Shuttle buses run frequently between the two areas.

The Mount Hutt Ski Field is located on South Island, a 90-minute drive from Christchurch. Get here by car or take one of the shuttle buses that regularly depart from Christchurch or Methven.

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Things to do near Mount Hutt Skifield

Mount Hutt Skifield offers a range of exciting activities for visitors, including excellent skiing opportunities and relaxing spa treatments. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at nearby holes while planning their next ski trip. Whether you're hitting the slopes at the Mt Hutt ski area or unwinding after a day of adventure, there's something for everyone in this stunning Canterbury destination.

Shopping

For souvenirs, visit the local shops at Mount Hutt Skifield. If you're up for a drive, head to Ashburton's East Street, where you'll find a variety of unique boutiques and gift shops showcasing local crafts and products.

Recreation

At Opuke Thermal Pools & Spa, indulge in soothing body treatments amidst a tranquil atmosphere, just 6.8km from Mount Hutt Skifield. For outdoor enthusiasts, Methven Golf Course offers a splendid golfing experience, while the Hororata Golf Club, located 12.4km away, invites you to enjoy its picturesque landscape.

Adventure

The Towers Triple Chair, a ski lift located 311m from Mount Hutt Skifield, offers exhilarating skiing experiences amidst breathtaking mountain scenery. For a scenic adventure, the Rakaia Gorge Walkway, 3.7km away, presents stunning views on an invigorating hike. Porters Ski Area, 13.7km distant, provides fantastic skiing and sports vibes.

Nightlife

At Mount Hutt Skifield, the nightlife is cosy and inviting, with venues like The Last Run Café offering warm drinks and delicious meals. The après-ski atmosphere buzzes with laughter and stories shared by skiers, creating a memorable end to an exhilarating day on the slopes.

Find the best attractions near Mount Hutt Skifield

For an unforgettable adventure at Mount Hutt Skifield, explore captivating waterfalls, majestic mountains, and serene reserves. These attractions cater to outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Discover the breathtaking beauty of the magnificent Mount Hutt, located just a short distance from the skifield. Don't forget to check reviews of Mount Hutt to enhance your experience and plan your itinerary effectively.

  • Awa Awa Rata Reserve: Located 3.1km from Mount Hutt Skifield, this reserve offers a delightful blend of recreation and adventure amidst stunning natural beauty. Ideal for budget-conscious tourists, it features walking trails and picnic spots that invite exploration.
  • Washpen Falls: Situated 5.6km away, this enchanting waterfall is a perfect spot for outdoor adventures and romantic getaways. The picturesque setting and scenic walks create a tranquil atmosphere, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
  • Mount Somers: Just 7.5km from Mount Hutt, this majestic mountain promises breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. Hikers can enjoy diverse trails that showcase the stunning landscapes of Canterbury, offering memorable adventures for all.

Best time to go to Mount Hutt Skifield

The best time to visit Mount Hutt Skifield can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Mount Hutt Skifield falls in January, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature around Mount Hutt Skifield falls in July, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January52.2°F (11.2°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March48.4°F (9.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April43.3°F (6.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
May38.1°F (3.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
June33.1°F (0.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July30.7°F (-0.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
August32.2°F (0.1°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
September34.9°F (1.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
October39.4°F (4.1°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
November44.8°F (7.1°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December49.8°F (9.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mount Hutt Skifield

To save money on your trip to Mount Hutt Skifield, consider visiting in the off-peak months of March, May, or November, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can secure better rates, especially on Tuesdays, which are the cheapest days to stay. Use Expedia's search tool to refine options by budget and location, and look for eco-certified hotels for sustainable stays. Combine hotel, flight, and activity bookings for additional savings through Expedia packages, and keep an eye out for last-minute deals for potential discounts.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Mount Hutt Skifield are March, May and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Mount Hutt Skifield about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Mount Hutt Skifield is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Mount Hutt Skifield is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and ideal type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking at Mount Hutt Skifield with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia