Up to 300 children, and 1200 skiiers in total, have been left stranded at Mt Hutt ski field as the result of hazardous road conditions in the region.





Access routes shut
Roads running to and from the mountain have been closed as a result of dangerously high winds - some which have hit more than 200 km an hour. Poor visibility has been another factor behind the decision to take emergency measures - one that leaves 1200 skiiers and 100 resort staff isolated at the resort.

However, early reports suggests the stranded skiiers - with a school group of 300 children amongst them - are generally in good spirits, enjoying meals in the resort cafeteria.

The assistant manager of Mt Hutt ski field, James McKenzie, has revealed guests at the resort may need to stay patient as the strong winds are predicted to continue for a short period of time at least.

Spirits high amongst stranded
And it's good news for the school group at least - with most of the kids reportedly only too happy to enjoy an extended break.

A teacher from the school commented:

"The kids are all laughing and think its a great adventure that they can stay. We're all warm and comfortable. It's pretty packed but they've looked after us. Mt Hutt staff are doing a really good job because they're going round picking up rubbish and keeping people entertained, giving kids crayons and free things."

She continued: "The winds came up very quickly, and didn't give much warning. At one point they were getting up to 206 kilometres an hour. At around 2pm we got an update and everyone was told to go into the cafe and we've been there ever since."

[source: tvnz.co.nz]