When Nature Meets Machines (22-May-08)

MT HUTT, NZ, MAY 22, 2008 - Mt Hutt’s snowmaking arsenal fired up last night

Mt Hutt’s snowmaking arsenal fired up last night, while natural snowfall blanketed the ski area with 15cm of new snow.

Twenty three new guns were added this year to Mt Hutt’s fleet of guns, making snowmaking more efficient and effective when the temperatures are right.  

"The snowmaking crew has worked exceptionally hard since coming on board and last night focused their efforts on Highway 72 and Broadway,” said James McKenzie, Assistant Ski Area Manager.

“We expect more freezing temperatures over the weekend and into next week, which will help maintain the good base starting to develop, as well as allowing maximum snowmaking.

“Locals are getting very excited at the prospect of a great winter, particularly now that we’ve had the early arrival of snow, snowmaking conditions are good and season opening on 14 June is just around the corner,” he added.

New features at Mt Hutt this year include a new five terraced mini terrain park to ease progression from novice through to intermediate level, a refurbished function room offering private groups of up to 100 people a relaxed and informal atmosphere overlooking the slopes, and an exciting array of new features for both the Big Park and the Mini Park.

Mt Hutt’s season opening is scheduled for Saturday 14 June.