Mt Hutt, South Island, NEW ZEALAND
Airing Date: Aug 28th, 2006
Nestled high inside the eastern rim of the Southern Alps is Mt Hutt Ski Area, which receives some of the deepest, lightest, driest powder in Australasia. Mt Hutt is the highest ski area in the Southern Hemisphere, it is the only New Zealand ski area to host a World Cup Race, has the most consistent snow, and the longest season of the major commercial ski areas with New Zealand. An exciting multimillion development has just been completed in 2005, so this area now offers a wide range of new terrain for all levels. Mt Hutt is a big bowl shaped mountain that caters well for advanced skiers with adrenaline pumping black diamond runs. Mt Hutt's Summit six seat chairlift offers access to a wide variety of trails while the novice area is serviced by a dedicated quad chair.
The ski season usually starts in Early June and closes towards the end of October, almost always with plenty of snow on the slopes. The region has some of the best heli-ski/board terrain in New Zealand. A daily shuttle transfers skiers/ boarders to the mountain, or you can self drive. It's a 45min 13km drive to the mountain car park. The road rises up very steeply and extreme care should be taken when driving. It's a good idea to take snow chains for the car with you.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Air New Zealand one way to Christchurch from
$239 ex Melbourne
$239 ex Sydney
$239 ex Brisbane
$399 ex Adelaide
$499 ex Perth
Prices available online and include surcharges, fees & taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
www.airnewzealand.com.au
Prices correct at 4/8/06
2 bedroom family unit from $134 a night. Price includes taxes. Subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
www.methvenapartments.co.nz
Prices correct at 28/8/06
Mt Hutt liftpass from $64 a day. Kids under 6 ski free.
www.Mthutt.com
Stavely Ice Skating &Curling Rink. Open Tuesday to Sunday during winter. Skate hire from $8.
