Mt Hutt skifield has announced a new opening date of June 7, subject to conditions.
The snow report on its website – “Unfortunately, the last few weeks of weather have been very unkind to us and we won’t be able to open for Kings Birthday weekend as we had all hoped.
“We are still holding out for an earlier opening on the weekend of 7th and 8th June but if the snow conditions/weather are still not up to par, we will revert to our original opening date of 13th June.
“We will provide further updates as conditions change – but in the meantime thanks for your understanding!”
The skifield has more on offer this season than just skiing on the mountain.
A busy event calendar, on and off the mountain, has been planned for 2025.
A special celebration to mark Matariki on being held on June 20. For those keen for an early soak there are limited places available at an exclusive Opuke Thermal Pools Matariki session using both the discovery and tranquillity pools. The 90-minute sessions begin at 4.30am.
Then make your way up the mountain for a unique opportunity where the public is invited to join Mt Hutt crew and members of Ngai Tahu and Hakatere Marae for spectacular views from 2086m high on the summit of Mt Hutt.
Celebrations will include a karakia (Maori prayer) for spiritual guidance and protection.
For those interested in skiing there will be an opportunity to get in a few early laps as the sun comes up. Non skiing sightseeing / stargazers welcome.
The loading of Summit lift starts at 6.45am with a 7am start for the Summit Six Matariki sight-seeing experience and karakia.
On June 27 from 9am to 4pm an exclusive locals’ day will be held at Mt Hutt as their way of saying thank you to Mid Canterbury alongside raising funds for a local group.
Anyone living between the Rakaia and Rangitata rivers for at least three months can ski for just $50 per person and gear rentals at $25 a day.
Money raised will go towards the Mount Hutt College climbing wall.
On September 13, the annual Peak to Pub multi-sport race returns from the Summit of Mt Hutt at 2086m starting from 9am, to the comfort of the Blue Pub in Methven at 300m.
Then a week after the Peak to Pub the mountain comes to Methven township with the Methven Chill Fest.
It takes place on September 20 from 4pm to 9pm.
Mt Hutt and Mt Hutt Parks has a street style rail/ jump session to rival all.
Truck loads of snow will be transported from the mountain to Methven Bike Methven jump park (behind the medical centre) where there will be an exhibition of jumps, rails and viewing pleasure for all ages.
There’ll be live music, food trucks, bar, and more. Cost $5. Gate opens from 4pm.
