History of Malisa Williams (Ng), Tai Chi Teacher, Auckland

Malisa Ng was a highly respected Tai Chi teacher in Auckland.

She was a highly ranked and much respected teacher and exponent of the Chen Style Art of Tai Chi (Chen Style is the most strenuous and physically hardest style of Tai Chi). Malisa’s instructor is Master Zhu Tian Cai, a Chen of the Chen family) from Chen Village in China who travels the world instructing in Chen Style Tai Chi. She also trained under the tutelage of Master Feng Zhi Qiang in her later years of teaching.

Malisa’s passion for Tai Chi was evident in her teaching. She was not only skilled in the physical aspects of the art but also deeply understood its mental and emotional benefits. Her classes were a sanctuary for many, offering a space for students to find peace, balance, and a deeper connection to themselves 

One of Malisa’s notable contributions was her work with Parkinson’s New Zealand. She collaborated with the organization to create specialized Tai Chi classes for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease. These classes were designed to improve flexibility, stamina, and overall well-being, while also serving as a support group for participants 

Malisa’s ability to tailor her lessons to meet the needs of each individual, made her classes inclusive and welcoming.

I met Malisa in 2004 when she conducted a workshop in Christchurch. In 2010 she accepted me and Barbara Bristowe to be student teachers and we travelled to Auckland for teaching workshops on an annual basis with her coming to Christchurch to teach my and Barbara’s students.

Malisa never wanted to be known as a Master of Taichi, happy to be known as a teacher.  She was humble, always learning new material and techniques which she passed onto as her students helping us continually improve.

Sadly, Malisa and Bernard Williams (Ng) passed away on January 24, 2019 as the result of a car accident. Her legacy, however, continues to inspire and influence the Tai Chi community in Auckland and beyond.

Malisa’s teachings and the positive impact she had on her students will be remembered and cherished for years to come.  She has had a lasting impact on my Tai Chi Form and teaching ability.  As I continue to teach Chen tai Chi, her ways of teaching are always in my methods and her words of wisdom always ringing in my ears. I continue to treasure my memories of her and my friendship both with Malisa and her husband Bernard.

Tim Exton – Flowing Mountain Tai Chi in Geraldine