Meet Our Team
Celia Williamson
Director | Piano | Keyboard | Class Music | Intro to Music
Born and raised in Hamilton, Celia is a proud mother of six and grandmother to twelve. Her deep love for family extends naturally into her work—she has a unique ability to make everyone she meets feel welcomed, valued, and part of something special.
With over 20 years of experience as a classroom teacher and music specialist, Celia has dedicated much of her career to inspiring young learners and supporting fellow educators. She has played a significant role in training music teachers across the Waikato, helping to plan and deliver professional development and support for schools in the wider region. Her commitment to music education also saw her serve as a member of the New Zealand Music Education Board (MENZA), contributing to national conversations about the future of music in schools.
Now in its tenth year, Celia describes teaching for her own academy as “the best teaching job ever.” Through Excite Academy, she brings her passion, experience, and vision to life—creating a vibrant community where creativity, confidence, and a love of music can flourish.
“Music has been a huge part of my life. As long as I am hearing, playing or teaching music, I am excited!”
— Celia Williamson
Kim Williamson
Director Kreative Arts Academy | Art Tutor
Kim is a talented visual artist and dedicated educator with a passion for nurturing creativity in others. She completed her Bachelor of Media Arts at Wintec in 2014, majoring in Painting and Illustration. While working at Excite, she returned to Wintec to pursue postgraduate study, graduating with First Class Honours in Painting in 2019—a testament to her commitment and excellence in her craft.
Influenced by the arts from a young age, Kim is passionate about finding fresh, engaging ways to inspire her students. She believes in making art accessible, expressive, and fun, encouraging creativity and confidence in every student she teaches.
Kim runs all visual art classes at Excite through her own business, Kreative Art Academy, where she offers a vibrant and hands-on learning experience. In addition to her teaching, she also plays an important role behind the scenes, assisting with Excite’s business operations and administration.
Anyone who knows Kim like we do, knows that she brings her creativity, professionalism, and love of the arts to everything she does.
Charlotte Qian (Charlie)
Piano Tutor
Charlie is a dedicated and inspiring piano tutor now in her second year with Excite Academy. Originally from China, she completed her undergraduate degree in Piano Performance at Shanghai Normal University in 2022. Shortly after, she and her husband moved to New Zealand, where she is currently pursuing advanced piano studies at the University of Waikato, further deepening her musical expertise and expanding her educational experience.
Charlie brings with her a strong foundation in classical technique, music theory, and performance, shaped by years of focused study and a deep personal connection to her instrument. Her teaching is not only rooted in technical excellence but also in a genuine passion for making music education enjoyable and accessible to students of all ages.
With a warm and encouraging approach, Charlie thrives on building positive relationships with her students. Whether it’s helping beginners build confidence or guiding more advanced students to refine their artistry, Charlie’s goal is to spark a lifelong love and appreciation for music.
Her calm presence, patient nature, and commitment to each student’s progress make her a cherished member of the Excite team. We are thrilled to have Charlie with us and excited to see the continued impact she will have in helping young pianists grow in skill, creativity, and confidence.
Muriwai Ngawaka (Muri)
Drama | Musical Theatre | Vocals Tutor |
Kapa Haka
Muriwai has been immersed in the world of performing arts and Kapa Haka since the age of six. Her passion for the stage has seen her perform in a wide range of musical productions including Shrek Jr, High School Musical (twice), Rent, Mamma Mia, as well as original works such as Hineraukatauri and Parihaka, both written by Paora Trim.
A seasoned performer, Muriwai competed in Kapa Haka throughout her early years before shifting her focus to teaching and choreography in high school. She now holds a Level 3 qualification in tutoring Kapa Haka and Dance and has worked extensively with junior high school dance squads, bringing energy, creativity, and leadership to each group she mentors.
Currently studying toward a Diploma in Te Reo Māori at the University of Waikato, Muriwai is deepening her knowledge and fluency as she prepares to pursue further studies at a Māori Performing Arts school. Her ultimate dream is to open her own Te Reo Māori Performing Arts School—an aspiration that reflects her dedication to both language and culture.
Muriwai brings to Excite Academy a powerful combination of drama, musical theatre, vocal, and teaching experience. Her vibrant presence, cultural insight, and creative passion are a true asset to our team and a source of inspiration for our students.
Robin Mark
Drums | Guitar | Electric Guitar | Bass Guitar |
Ukulele Tutor
Robin hails from Taumarunui in the King Country, where his musical journey began at a young age. Surrounded by talented musicians during his primary school years, he was inspired early on to pursue a life steeped in music. That passion led him to study at Wintec, where he completed his Level 4 Certificate in Commercial Music in 2016, solidifying his technical knowledge and performance skills.
While drums are Robin’s primary instrument—played to a phenomenal standard—his talents extend beyond percussion. He is also an accomplished guitarist and a creative force within Hamilton’s vibrant music scene. Robin performs in several rock and metal bands, bringing raw energy and precision to every performance. When he’s not on stage or in the studio, he’s often writing, composing, or experimenting with new musical ideas and sounds.
Now in his fourth year teaching at Excite Academy, Robin is a valued and passionate member of the team. With real-world performance experience and a solid grounding in contemporary music, Robin inspires his students to push boundaries, build confidence, and discover their own unique sound.
Robin is excited to continue sharing his love for music and helping the next generation of musicians grow their skills—both on and off the stage.
Ezearra Fairuz
Drums | Guitar | Electric Guitar | Bass Guitar
Originally from Malaysia, Ezearra moved to New Zealand with his family two years ago and is currently in his second year studying Law at the University of Waikato.
A dedicated and versatile musician, he began learning piano at the age of four, completing all his ABRSM grades at a young age. He later expanded his musical journey by studying guitar for over seven years, developing advanced skills across a wide range of styles including classical, fingerstyle, modern rock, blues, and improvisation.
In addition to his formal training in piano and guitar, Ezearra is experienced in bass and drums, bringing a well-rounded approach to his teaching. He is deeply passionate about music education and is committed to helping students grow in confidence and creativity through their musical journey.
Ezearra is thrilled to be part of the Excite Academy team and looks forward to inspiring the next generation of musicians.