5 Reasons to Enjoy a Ski Trip to Mt Hutt

One of New Zealand’s best all-rounders when it comes to ski fields, Mount Hutt is Canterbury’s largest ski resort known for its massive skiable area and accessible charm.

With its convenient location, range of terrain, and extensive facilities, it’s a winner for first-timers, families, and serious ski bums alike. And when there’s so much on offer only a short distance from the buzz of Christchurch city, there’s a lot of good reasons to visit the mountain awarded New Zealand’s best ski resort six years in a row. Let’s dive into five reasons to pick Mt Hutt for your next NZ ski holiday.

1. Fantastic accessible location

Easily accessible from the nearby alpine village of Methven, you can arrive at Mount Hutt less than two hours after hitting the road from Christchurch. From Methven, it’s an easy 35-minute drive to the ski area via a nice wide access road. Chains should be carried when driving a 2WD vehicle.

2. Great for all ages and abilities

One of Mt Hutt’s biggest strengths is its variety of terrain. Easy wide runs for beginners are on offer, as well as lessons for those hitting the slopes for the first time. Steep chute runs and more challenging areas are abundant for advanced skiers. Experienced snowboarders will love heading to the jump lines at Gunners Alley or the Jib Garden to test their aerial skills on a variety of pipes and features.

3. Nearby accommodation

Methven has a broad range of accommodation options to suit any budget. Motels are generally spacious and well-appointed, and backpackers and farm stays are welcoming and plentiful. More upscale luxury lodges are also available in and around the area, some with spa facilities to warm up those snow-chilled bodies.

4. Huge skiable area with a balanced mix of terrain

With 365 hectares of pristine mountain to discover, you can easily spend several days skiing Mt Hutt and still have more to explore. And with the ski field’s extensive facilities including two restaurants and two bars, plus an on-site ski shop, you’ll find plenty of space to relax and unwind in between runs—especially when that afternoon mug of hot chocolate starts calling you.

5. Heaps to explore, just a short trip from home

Flights from Australia’s east coast to Christchurch take around three and a half hours, so you could arrive on Friday evening in Christchurch and be skiing on Mt Hutt as early as Saturday morning. Whether you plan to base yourself in Christchurch or Methven, there’s no long drive to worry about to get access to some world class skiing. And there’s a world of exploring to do on the mountain and the beautiful surrounding countryside of Canterbury. For off-mountain activities, you can try your hand at archery, take a jet boat tour, or see the snow-capped Alps on a hot air balloon ride.

Keen to discover New Zealand’s family favourite ski field this season? Browse our range of Mount Hutt ski packages.

For further information, contact the Ski Express team.

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