Mount Hutt distinguishes itself from other South Island ski resorts by its sheer beauty alone; it sits an hour west of Christchurch and tops out at 6,808 feet, affording spectacular views of the sandy beaches and azure waters of the Pacific beyond the patchwork Canterbury plains. Most of the skiing here resides in the open bowl regions, with more gentle terrain in the center. There is also some demanding double-black terrain—some requiring short hikes to reach the piste—mostly on the southern side of the mountain or along Rakaia Saddle. Two half pipes and a terrain park round out the snowboard-specific attractions, while a robust skiing school and a few stretches of gladed greens offer novices plenty of ways to get their snow legs.

Heliskiing trips depart from the resort car park.