19/09/2025
Kia ora! We are Nicola and Lydia! Both experienced aerialists and performers, passionate instructors and now proud co-owners of the Aerial Academy! We’ve both been a big part of the aerial industry in New Zealand for years and are excited to be joining forces to create this stunning world-class aerial and circus facility!
Lydia Donaldson, proud doggo mum to Colin and lover of all things pink has been running renowned Christchurch based studio Aerial 3 for nearly 5 years. She brings with her to the Aerial Academy an array of aerial skills and knowledge and wealth of studio management experience. With an affinity for soft and vertical apparatuses, Lydia is particularly passionate about silks and rope although she is skilled in and teaches a variety of disciplines. A powerhouse performer, Lydia’s love for impressive drops and her strong dynamic movement style make her absolutely mesmerizing to watch in the air! On the ground, the warmth and vibrant enthusiasm she emanates is well known for making her students feel safe and welcome but also empowered enough to challenge themselves in every class.
Nicola Riddell is wife and mumma to two school age boys, as well as being an award winning Lyra artist and performer and has studied aerial hoop extensively now for years. She brings to the partnership a passion and love not only for Lyra, but for all hard spinny bar aerial apparatuses! Nicola enjoys nerding out about the dynamics of spin technique and her style is defined by flow that is both strong and elegant. With a love for performing and creative movement, Nicola loves encouraging students not only to express themselves and their find their particular style, but also to continue seeking precision and excellence within a fun and supportive class environment. These days, when not attached to her Lyra, you might find her playing on either the Trapeze or the Fly Pole.
Welcome to our corner of the web! We both warmly invite you to stick around to watch our exciting journey to opening day, where we hope to meet you there!
