TL;DR
Mt. Hutt in New Zealand's Canterbury region has received an unprecedented 1.2 metres of snow in early May, potentially leading to an early season opening.
Mt. Hutt Ski Resort Blanketed in Record May Snow
Mt. Hutt ski resort in New Zealand's Canterbury region has received an extraordinary amount of snow for early May. The recent snowfall, measuring approximately 1.2 metres, has created a substantial base for the upcoming ski season. This unexpected weather event has not only set records but also sparked discussions about potentially bringing forward the resort's opening date.
The current snow depth at the summit of Mt. Hutt is estimated at 1.8 metres, with the lower areas recording about 50 centimetres. Wind-driven snow has formed drifts exceeding 2 metres in some areas, making precise measurements challenging. This level of snowfall is unheard of for the first week of May at Mt. Hutt, where the historical average for this time is a mere 5 centimetres.
While the abundant snow is welcome news for skiers and riders, it has brought challenges to the surrounding areas. The Canterbury region experienced severe flooding, and strong winds caused damage to infrastructure, including roofs and power lines. Over 1,000 households in nearby areas faced power outages due to the extreme weather conditions.Despite these challenges, the Mt. Hutt team is working diligently to prepare the resort for the upcoming season. Crews are busy clearing access roads, uncovering lift terminals, and beginning to pack down the main trails. The official opening day is currently set for 13 June 2025, but resort management has hinted at the possibility of an earlier start if conditions remain favourable.
