UPDATE: Mt Hutt delays opening until 27 June 2026
Mt Hutt has received between 8-15cm of fresh snow, providing a welcome boost as the ski area works towards opening for the 2026 season
The fresh snow arrived overnight, improving conditions across the mountain after an unusually mild start to winter. While it is not a major snowstorm, every centimetre counts.
Mt Hutt’s snowmaking system is operating at full capacity as crews take advantage of the colder temperatures. Snowmaking has become increasingly important this season, with natural snowfall slow to arrive across much of the South Island. Mt Hutt says it will need favourable temperatures and manageable winds to continue building its snow base and give opening plans the best possible chance.
Several New Zealand ski areas have already delayed their opening dates this season due to a lack of natural snow, including Cardrona and The Remarkables.
For skiers and snowboarders eager to get back on the slopes, the latest snowfall is an encouraging sign. While there is still work to do, the combination of fresh snow and ongoing snowmaking is helping conditions move in the right direction.
Mt Hutt is expected to provide further updates in the coming days as staff continue preparing the mountain for winter operations.