Our Story

Penelope's of Otaki is a 7 day a week small boutique retail store in Otaki (45mins north of Wellington.)

Originally the Store was opened over 40 years ago by Penelope Bertelsen (Founder of Penelope's)  and Co-Owner of Penray Gardens.

Penelope's became a mother-daughter business with Rachelle her daughter joining the business in 1998 and then operated for many years until Rachelle took it over 15 years ago.

Penelope would still visit us instore to cast her eye over what we were up to and happily partook in our staff festivities being the life and soul of the party. Penelope sadly passed away in March 2024.

Rachelle had an accident in 2019 which meant she was unable to work Instore on the floor but still manages to oversee the business due to Technology and some fabulous staff to take over her duties Instore.  Rachelle keeps in contact with many loyal customers still able help them with event of modern technology. 

We employ 4 very loyal and experienced staff members Instore who will go above and beyond to help you especially when you are looking for that Special Occasion outfit for those special events and weddings.

Penelope’s launched online by Hannah while the Pandemic hit in 2020. (Despite having a newborn) This has been a significant tool for our customers and a great success.

Rachelle's daughter (Hannah) has now come on board in 2024 parttime to expand the website, social media and advertising and learn the ropes buying etc and bring new ideas moving forward.

And so, the second mother-daughter Duo has begun at Penelope's of Otaki.

We are committed to make your experience with Penelope's stress free and casual with a small-town friendly vibe that you don't often get in the cities.

We are a situated after a very quick turn off from the expressway into the Otaki Shopping Destination. 

Here's to many more years of success and happy customers at Penelope's of Otaki! 🌟

Kindest,

Rachelle Bertelsen,
(Owner)