Mount Hutt buried in late snow, 5 m (16 feet) snowdrifts spark reopening possibility, New Zealand
Mount Hutt skifield in New Zealand received nearly a meter (3 feet) of unexpected late-season snow, creating snowdrifts as high as 5 m (16 feet), which could prompt a rare reopening. The snowfall occurred over the long holiday weekend, peaking on October 26, 2024.
Mount Hutt buried in late snow, 5 m (16 feet) drifts spark reopening possibility - October 26, 2024. Image credit: Mt Hutt
New Zealand’s Mount Hutt Skifield received an unusually heavy snowfall, with about 1 m (3 feet) of new snow falling over the long weekend in late October 2024.
This snowstorm, which caused snow drifts of up to 5 m (16 feet) in specific locations, has increased the possibility of reopening the skifield for a limited time despite its official closure for the season.
Mount Hutt skifield is located near Methven on New Zealand’s South Island. This area is known for its famous ski resorts and mountainous terrain, where weather conditions can shift dramatically.
Significant snowfall occurred over the long holiday weekend, culminating around October 26. The snowstorm’s odd timing, well after the official ski season has ended, makes this an occasion to remember for both Mount Hutt’s crew and New Zealand’s winter sports community.
The heavy drifts have partially obstructed access to the location, forcing Mount Hutt workers to clean avalanche debris and make the area safe.
Mount Hutt ski resort manager James McKenzie said this was one of the biggest snowfalls he’d seen in October in nearly 20 years on the mountain.
He stated that, while the reopening was unexpected, they may consider giving limited access for skiers to enjoy the new snow if the weather stabilizes.
“It would have been handy to have this snow back in June,” McKenzie said.
References:
1 Mt Hutt ski field not ruling out reopening after weekend’s late snow – RNZ – October 28, 2024
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