Mt Hutt Ski Guide: Skiing Above Methven and the Canterbury Plains

Overview

Mt Hutt sits above the town of Methven, looking out over the Canterbury Plains. Its base area is at 1,597 m and the lifts reach 2,086 m. At about 90 minutes from Christchurch, it's an easy ski trip from the city.

The mountain

Who it suits

• Beginners: learner terrain on carpets, with first-timer lessons from the Mt Hutt Snowsports School.
• Intermediates and advanced: wide-open terrain across a 683 m vertical, with access gates to more terrain shown on the trail map.
• Park riders: four terrain parks.

2027 season and hours

NZSki's 2027 season runs from 18 June to 10 October 2027, with lifts operating 9am to 4pm. First Tracks runs from 8am to 9am on weekends from 4 July, and an afternoon pass covers 12:30pm to 4pm.

Getting there

• Distance: 26 km (about 30 minutes) from Methven and 113 km (about 90 minutes) from Christchurch.
• The access road: the last 14 km is unsealed and climbs to the base area at 1,597 m. NZSki requires you to carry snow chains at all times, even on fine days. Chains can be hired at the bottom of the access road or from McEwings in Methven, but you must be able to fit them yourself.
• Bus: NZSki lists bus options up the mountain on its getting-here guide, so you don't need to drive the road or fit chains.
• Passes: collect passes the day before from the Snowdesk at 94 Main Street, Methven. A MyPass card also works at Coronet Peak and The Remarkables.

Nearby

Methven is the closest town for accommodation. See our Christchurch city guide for flights and things to do before or after your ski days.