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Earthquake triggers avalanches at Mt Hutt, New Zealand

Earthquake triggers avalanches at Mt Hutt, New Zealand

Published : 04-Sep-2010 11:30

The New Zealand Herald is reporting a number of avalanches in the ski area of Mount Hutt, triggered by the earthquake off the South Island.

There was no danger to skiers or boarders, however, who suffered only the relatively minor inconvenience of late-opening lifts due to power problems.

Fresh snow and high winds created a "recipe for avalanches" at Mt Hutt ski-field during today's quake.

Safety manager John Hooker said at least 12 "reasonably large" avalanches were set off.

The 7.1 magnitude quake was centred near Darfield, 44km away from Mt Hutt.


Queenstown's skifields were not affected.

Coronet Peak Spokesperson Nadia Ellis said: "The roads are fine, the lifts are fine, we've got good crowds and great conditions."



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