Open Day on Mt Hutt

Open Day on Mt Hutt

Mt Hutt is to open to the public on Sunday February 18th for sightseeing and mountain biking as a fundraiser for charity.

The Methven Lions Summer Open Day will be the first time the Mt Hutt ski area has been opened in the summer and offers the opportunity for sightseers to take in stunning views of the Southern Alps and across the Canterbury Plains out to the Pacific Ocean.

The Summit Six chairlift, that in the winter carries skiers to the top of the mountain, will operate for those wanting to reach the summit.

“Mountain bike enthusiasts and their bikes can ride the chair to the top of the mountain then descend via the four wheel drive tracks that lead down from the summit,” said ski area manager David Wilson.

“The terrain is very steep and bikes are capable of starting erosion. For that reason bikes need to stay on the trails.”

The open day will also be a chance for visitors to study at first hand the unique botany of the higher slopes of the South Island mountains with guided tours conducted by experts throughout the day.

For those wishing to see the sights in style, scenic flights in a helicopter will be available from the ski field car park.

The café seating will be open for those wanting to watch proceedings and visitors can either bring their own lunch or enjoy a barbeque food supplied by Methven Lions.

The ski area access road will be open from 9am and the chair lift will operate from 10am until 3pm.

Entry cost will be $20 per person or $40 for a family. Children accompanied by an adult are free. The admission price includes free travel on the chairlift.

Proceeds from the open day will go towards the Methven Heritage Project and Methven St John.

“The Methven Lions Club was instrumental in the establishment of the ski area in the 70’s. Since then, the club has continued to enjoy a long standing relationship with Mt Hutt. It is a totally different mountain in summer and its great to be able open it up for people to enjoy” said Ken Low, Vice President of the Methven Lions Club

While the access road is open to all vehicles, minibus transport will be available, leaving from the square in Methven from 9.30am onwards. Booking are essential (03 302 8106).

If the weather is unsuitable, the open day will be held the following Sunday with information available on the Mt Hutt snow phone (03 308 5074) and website (nzski.com).

ENDS

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