Our Team

We understand that visiting a dentist can be a little daunting, so we take great efforts to make our patients visits as comfortable as possible.

Dave Excell

I graduated in 1995 from the University of Otago with a BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery). I then worked at Southland Hospital dental unit before heading to Hamilton then the UK. Upon returning to NZ from our OE we settled in Wellington.

We have owned the practice here in Eastbourne since 2004.

I am a member of our Dental Associations board and really enjoy the challenge it offers beyond my work at the surgery. I enjoy practicing all parts of general dentistry and enjoy the variety a general family practice brings. Outside of work I enjoy all things sport and still enjoy playing hockey "socially".

Fiona Excell

I graduated from the University of Otago in 1996 with a BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery).

Since our early travels and settling in Wellington, I have practiced in Eastbourne since 2000. I thoroughly enjoy sharing the practice with Dave and our wonderful staff and lovely patients.

We love living locally with our 3 children and wee dog.

Ceriwen Benn

I graduated from the University of Otago and have been working as a dentist in the Wellington region since 2014.

I hold dual scope of practice, working as both a specialist in Special Need Dentistry for Te Whatu Ora, and in general dental practice in the community.

I am a committee member of the local Wellington Branch of the NZDA and enjoy voluntary work wherever I can. Outside of my professional life I have a love of travel and culture enjoyed alongside my partner, family and friends.

Lisa Bailey

I graduated from The Eastman Dental Hospital London in 2011.

I emigrated to NZ with my family in 2014. I bring lots of enthusiasm and enjoy helping my patients to achieve a high standard of oral hygiene. My aim is to optimise each patient’s oral health.

Outside of work I enjoy sewing and crafts. Also spending time with our growing boys and wee dog.

Sheryl Hotop

I have a background in IT Management and have worked for the dental centre since 2019 as a receptionist/office manager.

Drawn by the beauty of the area, I emigrated to Eastbourne from Australia in 2019 with my family. I also assist in the surgery occasionally as well .

I enjoy the variety of the job and also meeting and chatting with all the people in Eastbourne. Out of the office I enjoy walking in the hills, swimming in the ocean, seeing friends and spending lots of time with my family.

Carolyn Murphy

I have worked at Eastbourne Dental centre as a receptionist since 2017.

I have a background as a Personal Assistant, where I have worked for various insurance and accountancy firms.

My favourite aspect of my job is interacting with the various clients that are apart of our practice. Outside of work I enjoy the outdoors and spending time with family and friends.

Laurie Hunt

I have worked as a Dental Assistant since 2019 and qualified with a Certificate in Dental Assisting in 2020.

I have recently joined the Eastbourne practice and enjoy being part of the community here.

Originally from the UK, I enjoy going to the gym, walks and spending time with my children.

Lauren Excell

I am currently attending St Oran’s College and have grown up in Eastbourne.

I have helped out at the dental centre for several years and I am now trained as a dental assistant which I really enjoy.

The job is really interesting and I enjoy both the intricacy and processes involved.

Outside of school I love to challenge my creative side through sewing, pottery and playing musical instruments.

Roberta Carvalho

Hello. I am Roberta and I have been working in the dental industry since January 2020.

I started here at Eastbourne Dental Centre where I was trained and studied for my certificate in Dental Assisting and Sterilizing Technology.

I really enjoy all aspects of my new career.

I love to travel during my time off with my husband and two teenage daughters and have already enjoyed a few adventures around the world.

We’d love to meet you! So book in a consultation today!