New Zealand’s Mt Hutt breaks early May snowfall record
Mt Hutt experienced an unusually intense snowfall from May 2 to 4, 2025, with accumulations reaching 1.2 m (48 inches). This marks a record for early May snowfall in the area, according to Mt Hutt Ski Area. The storm system also brought damaging winds and flooding to parts of the country, with power outages affecting more than 1 100 homes, particularly in the Wellington region.
Mt Hutt on May 5, 2025. Credit: Mt Hutt
Mt Hutt in New Zealand’s Canterbury region experienced heavy snowfall from May 2 to 4, 2025, with around 1.2 m (47 inches) of new snow accumulation reported across the mountain.
The snow base at the summit is now estimated at 1.8 m (71 inches), while lower elevations have about 50 cm (20 inches). Wind redistribution has created drifts exceeding 2 m (79 inches) in some locations. According to Mt Hutt Ski Area, this sets a new record for snowfall during the first week of May.
Mt Hutt typically receives minimal snowfall in early May, averaging around 5 cm (2 inches) based on historical data from the ski area. Significant accumulations and multi-day snow events are rare during this period, making the recent snowfall an unusual early-season anomaly.
While the snowfall benefited ski operations, other regions of New Zealand experienced adverse impacts from the same weather system. Intense winds struck parts of the Wellington region, damaging rooftops and power infrastructure. Approximately 1 165 homes in areas including Wainuiomata, Kelson, Belmont, Avalon, and Epuni lost electricity. Flooding was also reported in some low-lying urban zones.
The 2025 ski season at Mt Hutt is scheduled to begin on June 13 and continue through October 12. In response to the early snowfall, crews have begun clearing snow from lift zones and conducting standard pre-season safety checks.
Mt Hutt sits on the South Island of New Zealand, about a 90-minute drive from Christchurch. The resort covers 3.65 km2 (1.4 mi2) of skiable terrain. It has a summit elevation of 2 086 m (6 843 feet) and a vertical drop of 683 m (2 241 feet), making it a popular skiing spot.
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