Mt Hutt celebrates 10 and under free deal for children

Canterbury’s Mt Hutt ski area is looking forward to a season of family fun, as families head for the slopes in the knowledge that children aged 10 and under ski for free.

Mt Hutt General Manager Operations James Urquhart said many Christchurch and Canterbury families were “absolutely delighted” about the ’10 and under’ ski free deal for youngsters, which also extended to offers from many Methven businesses.

However the deal doesn’t apply just to ‘local’ families – anyone visiting the ski area from around New Zealand or overseas can take advantage of the offer.

Mr Urquhart said the ’10 and under’ move was designed to make skiing and snowboarding more affordable for families and had been widely welcomed.

“Mt Hutt is really proud to be part of the Methven Kids 4 Free deal and the feedback we’ve had from families, especially those with two or three children, is that it’s re-ignited their passion for a winter ski holiday.

“We hope record numbers of families will be able to realise their dream of taking the kids on a skiing holiday, especially when they can take advantage of special offers of free food or accommodation to help take the financial pressure off a winter break.”

The deal is the initiative of the Mt Hutt Marketing Group which comprises representatives from the Methven business community, Mt Hutt, Christchurch International Airport Limited, and Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism.

Many shops, restaurants, cafes and motels in the village are actively taking part in and promoting the deal.

Christchurch & Canterbury Tourism chief executive Tim Hunter said he believed the deal would be equally popular with families in New Zealand and Australia, especially as Methven is only a one hour scenic drive from Christchurch International Airport.

"We think we'll get a lot of families crossing the Tasman to take advantage of this special offer,” he said. “Mt Hutt has a great reputation in Australia and the opportunity to bring the kids here on a ski holiday for very little cost will prove irresistible for many parents.”

The Methven Kids 4 Free deal also includes free airport transfers with Mt Hutt Ski Bus for kids 10 and under to and from Christchurch Airport and Methven daily and a free daily Mt Hutt ski bus from selected accommodation.  For a full list of participating businesses visit www.kids4free.co.nz