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One of Canterbury's most popular ski fields - Mt Hutt - is set to open up the slopes on Friday for its 51st season.
The field west of Christchurch is expecting a low of -8 deg C on opening day with more snow forecast throughout the week.
Ski area manager James McKenzie said the team is gearing up for a busy winter.
Mt Hutt is encouraging skiers and snowboarders to car pool to the mountain when possible in a bid to reduce their carbon footprint.
Vehicles with a full load of passengers will be prioritised. The initiative will operate on days the ski field expects to be at its busiest.
The ski field will signal a priority day 48 hours in advance on its website.
Mt Hutt will also open a new advanced trail for experienced skiers this season and an extension to the beginner's slope.
- By Geoff Sloan, made with the support of NZ On Air