Entrepreneur Creates Vibrant Pilates Studio in Auckland Home

Mibella Villafana, a wellness entrepreneur, has transformed a portion of her home in Grey Lynn, Auckland, into a lively Pilates studio known as Cora Studio. Opened in September 2023, the studio offers a unique blend of reformer Pilates, sauna sessions, contrast therapy, and IV infusions, specifically catering to women and LGBTQI+ individuals.

At just 34 years old, Villafana has lived in various countries, including the United States, Spain, and Australia. For the past decade, she has made Auckland her home, residing with her partner, former rugby player and entrepreneur Marc Ellis, and their blended family of four children: Sophia, 15, Tommy, 14, Otis, 10, and Maverick, 8, along with their cat, Goosey.

Originally from San Diego, California, Villafana was raised in a multicultural environment, thanks to her Mexican father, a dental surgeon, and American mother. While initially aspiring to become a doctor, her passion for sports led her to gymnastics and later to yoga. After completing a degree in arts and psychology, she began teaching yoga in Sydney. Her journey to Auckland began in 2015 when she met her Kiwi partner.

Transforming a Family Space into a Wellness Haven

Villafana moved into Ellis’ house two years ago, an historic property built in the late 1800s. Since then, they have undertaken renovations, including updating the kitchen. With a shared love for entertaining—though they prefer barbecues to elaborate cooking—the decision to convert a significant area of their home into a Pilates studio was a collaborative one.

“It has always been a dream to open my own Pilates studio,” Villafana shared. “Marc supports my vision, which is why we decided to repurpose his man cave and arcade room, filled with pinball machines, into Cora Studio.” The couple combined two rooms to create a spacious, inviting studio and gallery, complete with cream floors and terracotta pink walls, providing an ideal environment for her classes.

Since its opening, Cora Studio has quickly established itself within the community, offering approximately 30 classes per week. The addition of sauna facilities and hot and cold plunge pools has further enhanced its appeal. Villafana expressed her delight at the positive reception, stating, “It’s become a really social place, and I’m thrilled about the wellness community we’re creating.”

A Community-Centric Approach to Wellness

Living in Grey Lynn has also contributed to Villafana’s sense of belonging. She appreciates the area’s vibrant community filled with independent shops and eateries, noting that it has long felt like home to her. “Even when I lived elsewhere in Auckland, I knew this area was the place for me,” she remarked.

Among her favorite dining spots is Lilian on Richmond Road, where she enjoys date nights and their specialty cocktails, particularly the cosmopolitan and wood-fired octopus. Villafana also praises Ozone for its oat flat white, although she admits that much of her coffee now comes from their home espresso machine.

In her free time, Villafana embraces her love for the outdoors. “I’m a beach girl,” she said. “I often drive to a beach to soak up the sun or enjoy winter walks on the sand.” The proximity of Grey Lynn to various beautiful beaches adds to her enjoyment of life in New Zealand.

As she continues to grow her business and engage with her community, Mibella Villafana finds fulfillment in both her professional and personal life, demonstrating how passion and commitment can transform not only a space but also the lives of those around her.