AFTER his house in the sun burnt down, he started building them in the snow. Powderlife caught up with the president of Hokkaido Tracks Resort Properties, Simon Robinson.
Could you start off by telling me a bit about yourself and how you came to Niseko?
I came here with my wife and business partner, Joasia, after we lost our home and business in the Canberra bushfires in 2003. We thought that Niseko needed a level of accommodation that matched the superb skiing experience, which was as good as anywhere that we had skied in the world. Niseko is now our home, and as much as we love winter – we’re both powder skiers – we look forward to summer, which is so lush and green.
How many projects has Hokkaido Tracks been involved with?
Since 2003, we have built 140 apartments in nine buildings, and over 40 houses. We currently have three apartment projects for sale and two major housing projects – Escarpment Estate and Hirafu Houses.
What past project has had the most significant impact on yourself?
When we completed Youtei Tracks in 2006, it was the most significant building that had been built in Hirafu for some 25 years. It was the first large-scale project that we undertook and was a huge leap of faith for us. It was also a turning point for Niseko and brought a lot of confidence to the area.
How does building up an area such as the Escarpment differ from previous ventures?
It’s the first resort community that we have undertaken. It is situated on the edge of the village surrounded by exquisite nature and the master plan assures that the views of all blocks are protected. It’s for people who are looking for the ‘true Niseko’ experience.
Why was Furano chosen as the next development site for Hokkaido Tracks?
It’s a just a magical area year-round and it is starting to see the sort of growth in visitation that Niseko saw in the early days. There is a good mix of skiing options with excellent on-piste skiing on Mt. Furano and off-piste skiing in the nearby resorts of Asahidake and Sahoro Links. The site we have secured in Furano is in a ski in, ski out location, and also close to the lavender fields and golf in summer.
Where do you see the Niseko market going from here?
We will see a period of consolidation of foreign investment into Niseko. We should see a diversification of the accommodation mix not just top and bottom, but closer to rental demand. The successful development will depend on how well the authorities and stakeholders can guide the future development and expansion of Niseko. Master planning is crucial.
What might we expect to see from Hokkaido Tracks in the future?
Hokkaido Tracks Resort Properties will continue to identify new market needs and develop our products accordingly. We believe that the next couple of years will be quieter, but that in the longer term, Hokkaido will continue to emerge as the ‘lifestyle capital in Asia’.