West of Christchurch, the Mount Hutt Ski area has about two dozen runs served by 3 chairlifts with a maximum vertical drop of 600m. Mount Hutt is known by local snowboarders for its long season and natural halfpipe. When snowboarding and freeriding internationally, it is important to get a travel insurance policy that covers emergency rescue, medical expense and evacuation. There are many destinations that will not initiate rescue or medical treatment without prior payment or proof of insurance. In many cases, the rescue fees, medical fees or evacuation to a reputable hospital can total tens of thousands of dollars. Plans such as GEOS SAR100 or IMG Patriot Travel Medical Insurance are well worth the per-trip cost of $130 to $200 USD.
Overall, Mount Hutt Ski Area is the 2nd most popular snowboard & freeride destination of all 9 snowboarding resorts in New Zealand.
