Team members

The Team

Ivan’s specialist team have over 40 years’ experience between them. Our team members have been with the practice a considerable time which gives the patients’ continuity of care. Our dedicated team deliver an exceptional service in a friendly, caring and enjoyable environment.

Ivan M.E. de Spa M.D.S (Otago)

Principal Orthodontist

Ivan was born in Belgium, lived in South Africa and the Belgian Congo before moving to New Zealand as a 9 year old. He graduated from Otago University with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery in 1975 and worked in the outback of Western Australia as a flying Dentist. He returned to Otago University to do his Masters degree in Orthodontics in 1984. Ivan is passionate about Orthodontics and continues to keep up with new technologies and ideas by attending Orthodontic Conferences and Symposiums.

Susan de Spa

Practice Manager

Susan born in the Bay of Plenty and moved around a lot as a child. Susan is the "go to" person in the Practice and is there to provide cover help as and when necessary. Susan's life revolves around family when she is not at work, but she also enjoys walking, reading, sewing/stitching and is at present learning to play golf and given more spare time she loves to travel. Susan and Ivan have five children between them and a grand daughter.

Lee-Anne Croucher

Orthodontic Auxiliary & Hygienist

Lee-Anne has been part of the Dental industry since 1985. She qualified as an Orthodontic Auxillary in 2004 and has been working in the practice part time since early 2009. Lee-Anne believes there is nothing better than giving someone the gift of their smile and helping them feel confident enough to use it. Being a real "geek-freak" she enjoys the technology aspect of Orthodontics and has a particular passion for Invisalign. She has a wide range of interests including home renovating, cycling, running, swimming, reading, travel, music and keeping up with her family.

Lisa Brown

Dental Therapist

Therapist/Hygienist/Ortho Auxiliary': Lisa is a passionate tooth nut from way back who graduated from AUT in 2014. When she is not dreaming of teeth, she is dreaming of snowboarding, and likes nothing better than reading, art and gardening… but not at the same time. Lisa’s degree includes dental therapy, hygiene and she is an orthodontic auxiliary, so rest assured you are in excellent, caring, well trained hands.