Guiding/Management
The guiding and management team at Annupuri Lodge are an eclectic mix of people who all share a common love … deep powder snow. Former professional surfers, photographers, builders, mothers, surf industry managers, club owners- we are from all corners of the planet- the USA, Japan, NSW, Queensland, Victoria and Hokkaido. The same thing that has brought us together is the very thing that is bringing you to Japan … powder snow! Our understanding of the service industry and also just how good an escape to the mountains can be is the driving force behind our Powder Deluxe product and we are there to make sure YOU get to enjoy the same wonder and excitment that we have enjoyed for many years.
Matt Naiman.
Matt has been involved with the operation and running of Annupuri Lodge for the past three years, as an owner and general manager. Matt has been in Japan for the best part of 15 years. In addition to the Annupuri Lodge, he also owns and runs the highly successful "Pure" nightclub chain in Tokyo and Osaka. Matt looks after everything from on ground logistics through to permits and operating logistics as well as all regular season bookings and Asia bookings for the Powder Deluxe packages.
Ray and Chiharu Leak.
The in-house managers of Annupuri Lodge, Ray and "Chips" have been running the lodge for a couple years now and will look after everything from lighting the fire to ensuring you don't miss out on breakfast. Ray is an ex-pat American who speaks fluent Japanese, rides with reckless abandon and can bust out some mean juggling skills with everything from vodka bottles to bus timetables. Chiharu, Ray's wife, is an avid snowboarder and native of Japan who, along with Ray, ensures everything runs smoothly for your entire stay.
Shane Peel.
Shane is an award-winning photo journalist and hyper keen snowboarder. Shane has recently been involved in the highly successful Indonesian surf resort Telo Island Lodge as a Director and Marketing Manager. Shane has spent the last 7 winters in Hokkaido and will be looking after everything from in-resort-guiding to guest relations at Annupuri Lodge.
Dave Simons.
Dave is a former world number-two professional longboarder and head of the Marine Operations department at Telo Island Lodge. Dave has been riding in Japan for a number of years after Peely decided to show him where he had been going to every winter. Dave will also be looking after in-resort guiding and guest relations at the lodge. Last season, Dave spent fifty days riding the powder of Annupuri and the nearby backcountry.
Rianna Huebner.
Rianna comes to us from her position as General Manager at Telo Island Lodge. Rianna will be running all the logistics and scheduling along with Matt and Kellie to ensure guests stays are problem-free. Rianna has spent the last six winters riding in Hokkaido.
Mark "Maxy" Grant.
A legend of the surf tourism business in Indonesia and the spirit behind Telo Island Lodge, Mark will be responsible for all the refurbishments and additions that make Annupuri Lodge the perfect riders lodge. A recent convert to the world of snowboarding Mark, has already logged over 25 days riding in Australia and New Zealand this year.
Kellie Papworth.
As the Asian Pacific Sales manager for Annupuri Lodge and Telo Island Lodge, Kellie will manage all aspects of bookings and guest itineraries. Kellie is another recent convert to snowboarding and after a 2 weeks stint in New Zealand this season she is looking to further perfect her back seven to invert this season in Japan.
Snow
Report
For the latest Annupuri Lodge snow report click here!
Galleries
Check out the latest image and video gallieries from the resort click here!