Mt Hutt - one of the largest ski resorts in the "Southern Alps"!

When in the European Alps and in North America lift facilities are put out of action and summer approaches winter begins in the southern hemisphere. New Zealand is among the most southern countries in the world and is often considered the gateway to Antarctica. Mt Hutt Ski Area is situated between 1403m and 2086 m above sea level, right above the little ski village Methven and guarantees ski fun from mid June to the beginning of October. Like all ski resorts in New Zealand Mt Hutt features few lift-facilities, only three chairlifts and one magic carpet. However these lifts give access to an abundance of diverse slopes. From the mountain station of the “Summit Six Chair” about 15 different trails lead down into the valley. Mt Hutt is easily accessible by car as the ski resort is located on the margin of the “Southern Alps”. From Christchurch it’s a 1.5 hour drive on Highway 1 via Ashburton and Methven. However the serpentine road from Methven to Mt Hutt is not tarred and may only be accessed if snow-chains are carried along. And when you then let your gaze wander over pristine slopes that stretch down to the Pacific Ocean you grow immediately aware of the fact that this is not just some average ski resort! Can Europe live up to that?