Feel ready for birth.
Feel steady in early parenthood.
Antenatal and early parenting education that helps you stop guessing and start feeling ready.
You’ll learn what’s normal, what choices you actually have, and how to support each other through labour, birth, and those intense early days with a newborn - without fear, fluff, or judgement. Pick the format that fits your life: in-person in Hawke’s Bay, live online NZ-wide, or self-paced learning.
Over 5,500 parents supported over the past 20 years
Preparing for birth and becoming a parent can bring excitement, questions, uncertainty - sometimes all at once. You don’t need to have everything figured out. You need clear information, steady support, and space to build confidence at your own pace.
At Bellies to Babies, I support parents through pregnancy, labour, birth and the early weeks with practical, real-world education that actually makes sense. My approach is warm, evidence-informed and non-judgemental - focused on helping you feel calmer, clearer and more capable as you move through this transition.
Through antenatal classes, hands-on workshops, and personalised support options, you’ll gain tools you can use, conversations that matter, and reassurance you can return to.
Some parents join one class and feel sorted. Others prefer layered support across pregnancy and early parenting. There’s no “right” way to prepare — only what feels right for you.
This isn’t about knowing everything or doing it perfectly.
It’s about feeling supported enough to trust yourselves, ask questions, and move forward with confidence.
Choose Your Antenatal Class
5-Week, In-Person Classes (Hawke’s Bay) $275
A relaxed, supportive space where we meet weekly and build knowledge step-by-step.
Perfect if you enjoy connection, conversation, and learning alongside other parents. Over five evenings, we cover pregnancy, labour, birth, pain relief options, partner support, newborn care, recovery, and those early weeks at home.
It’s comprehensive, interactive, and designed to build confidence gradually.
Boutique Weekend Intensive (Hawke’s Bay) $275
A focused, small-group experience over one weekend.
Perfect if time is tight or you prefer immersive learning. We cover everything you need in a supportive, engaging format - practical, clear, and confidence-building.
Small numbers mean more personalised support and space for deeper discussion.
1:1, 3-Week, Planned Caesarean Section Course (Live, Online, NZ Wide) $325
Preparing for a caesarean birth deserves just as much intention and care.
This private live, online course walks you through what to expect before, during, and after surgery - including recovery, partner roles, early bonding, and practical tips to feel calm and informed.
Because feeling prepared matters, whatever your birth pathway.
Private Consultations (Hawke’s Bay & Live, Online NZ Wide) $375
Tailored support, completely personalised to you.
These sessions are ideal if you:
• Want focused one-on-one preparation
• Have specific medical considerations
• Feel anxious and want extra reassurance
• Prefer privacy over group learning
We shape the session around your questions, your preferences, and your circumstances - so you leave feeling clear and genuinely ready.
5-Week, Live Online Classes (NZ Wide) $245
All the same trusted content - from the comfort of your own home.
Ideal if you’re outside Hawke’s Bay, juggling busy schedules, or simply prefer learning online. These sessions are interactive and welcoming, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and connect.
Real education. Real support. No travel required.
Bellies to Babies Antenatal Education Designed for Real Life
However you want to prepare for birth, there’s an option that fits your schedule, your learning style, and your level of support.
All classes are evidence-based, practical, and down-to-earth - with honest conversations, real tools, and space to ask the questions you might be Googling at 3am.
Who the Classes Are For
These classes are designed for expectant parents preparing for birth and early parenting. Many of the parents who attend are expecting their first baby, but anyone wanting clear, practical preparation is welcome.
Partners or a support person are strongly encouraged to attend. Birth and early parenting work best when you feel like a team, and these classes help both of you understand what to expect and how to support each other.
In-Person Class Size
Classes are intentionally kept small, with a maximum of 12 couples for both the 5-week courses and boutique weekend intensives.
Smaller groups create a relaxed environment where conversations flow naturally, questions feel easy to ask, and everyone has space to participate without feeling overwhelmed.
What the Classes Feel Like
My teaching style is relaxed, practical and interactive. We talk through real-life scenarios, explore different options for labour and birth, and practise simple techniques that can help during labour and in the early weeks with your baby.
You can expect:
• clear, evidence-informed information
• practical demonstrations and hands-on learning
• open conversations and honest discussions
• plenty of time for questions
• no awkward icebreakers, tests, or pressure
What You’ll Learn
Understand the stages of labour
Learn what’s happening in your body, what to expect as labour progresses, and how to recognise when things are moving forward.
Support your body during birth
Discover practical ways to work with your body during labour, including movement, positioning, comfort techniques, and partner support.
Make informed decisions
Understand common procedures and pain relief options so you can ask questions, weigh your choices, and make decisions that feel right for you.
Care for your newborn
Build confidence with the basics of early baby care, including feeding, soothing, sleep patterns, and what is normal in the first weeks.
Navigate early parenting
Prepare for the transition into life with a new baby, including recovery, adjusting as a family, and finding your rhythm in the early days.
See the full list of topics covered.
With over 20 years’ experience and more than 5,500 parents supported, the focus is always on helping you feel calmer, clearer and more confident as you prepare for birth and life with your baby.
Upcoming Antenatal Classes
Classes run throughout the year in Hawke’s Bay and online across New Zealand.
Why Families Choose Bellies to Babies for Pregnancy, Early Parenting & On-Going Support
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Experienced, Trusted Guidance
With over 20 years of experience and more than 5,500 families supported, your preparation is guided by real experience and practical understanding — not just theory.
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Practical Skills You Use
Focus on skills you can apply in labour and early parenting, not just information.
From comfort strategies to newborn care and safety, our classes build confidence through doing and knowing -
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Warm, Practical Teaching
Classes are relaxed, supportive, and designed to make complex information feel manageable. Expect real conversations, practical tools, and space to ask questions.
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Options That Fit Your Life
Choose from in-person classes in Hawke’s Bay, Live online classes available across New Zealand, self-paced learning, or private consultations.
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Clear, Evidence-Informed Education
You’ll learn how birth works, what your options are, and how to make decisions that feel right for you and your baby.
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Support Beyond the Class
Your preparation doesn’t end when the class finishes. The Bellies to Babies Support Hub gives you access to resources, guidance, and a place to reconnect whenever you need it.
Hi, I’m Janine Penny
This video gives you a quick look at who I am, how I teach, and what you can expect from my classes. If you’re after real, practical support and a friendly, down-to-earth approach to pregnancy, birth, and early parenting - you’re in the right place.
My Values.
Fun – I bring warmth, humour, and joy to learning, making every session feel relaxed, real, and full of connection.
Courage – I help parents face the unknown with confidence, strength, and an open heart.
Empathy – I listen, support, and create space where every parent feels seen, heard, and valued.
Resourcefulness – I share practical tools and fresh ideas to help parents adapt, grow, and thrive through every stage.
Ongoing Support & Helpful Resources for Your Pregnancy & Parenting Journey
Parenting is a journey that doesn’t end with a class - and neither does our support. From practical workshops and tools to postnatal guidance and trusted tips, we’re here to help you feel confident, supported and ready for what’s next.
Workshops & Special Sessions
Learn practical skills beyond basics
From infant emergency confidence to sensory and massage techniques - these hands-on workshops help you feel grounded and ready for real-life moments with your baby.
Tools that nurture body and mind
Our comfort tools - from pregnancy wheat bags to calming accessories - are chosen to help you feel physically and emotionally supported.
Comfort Tools & Thoughtful Products
Guides, Tips & Trusted Information
Helpful resources when you need them
Access curated guides and trustworthy information on pregnancy, parent wellbeing and early parenting so you never feel alone.
The Bellies to Babies Support Hub
The Bellies to Babies Support Hub is an online community where you can ask questions, access resources, and connect with other parents navigating the same journey.
You’re welcome whether you’ve attended a Bellies to Babies class or you’re simply looking for supportive, evidence-based guidance.
Helpful Guides & Articles for Your Pregnancy and Early Parenting Journey
Explore trusted, evidence-based articles written from years of teaching experience - from pregnancy and labour insights to newborn care and postnatal support. These guides are here to help you learn, feel confident and stay connected at every stage.
Featured Blogs:
Your Postnatal Recovery Plan: Rest, Repair, and Rebalance: Gentle, practical steps to support healing after birth — body and mind.
Read the full guide
Understanding Labour Induction: Benefits, Risks, and the Role of the Bishop’s Score: Clear, evidence-based insights if induction is part of your plan.
Read the full guide
What do labour contractions feel like?: All your questions answered - what are they, what do they feel like and how long do they last. Read the full guide
Optimizing Baby’s Position: Tips for Easier Labour and Birth: Actionable tips to help support your baby into optimal birth position.
Read the full guide
Everything You Need to Know About Epidurals: Balances benefits and considerations so you can make informed choices.
Read the full guide
A Letter from Your Newborn: Reassuring reflections on early newborn life and connection.
Read the full article
Embracing Fatherhood: The Realities of Becoming a Dad: Support and perspective for new fathers on the parenting journey.
Read the full guide
Helpful Comfort Tools - Designed to Support You Through Pregnancy, Birth and Early Parenting
You’re more than a birthing body - you’re a whole person. These hand-selected comfort tools are crafted to support you physically and emotionally through pregnancy, labour, birth and the early postpartum weeks. From warming wheat bags to soothing sprays and gentle tools, everything here is chosen with your comfort in mind
Experience the Comfort You Deserve with Our Extra-Long Pregnancy Wheat Bags
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it’s no secret—it comes with its share of discomforts. Whether it’s an aching back, a sore belly, or those pesky leg cramps, relief can feel out of reach. That’s where our extra-long pregnancy wheat bags come to the rescue.
Why Mums Love Our Wheat Bags
Targeted Relief: Say goodbye to backaches, hip pain, and even sciatica with soothing warmth that hits just the right spots.
Extra-Long Design: Unlike regular wheat bags, ours are thoughtfully sized to wrap snugly under your bump, across your back, or around your hips.
Natural Comfort: Handcrafted in Hawke’s Bay from 100% cotton and filled with whole wheat and dried lavender, they’re as gentle as they are effective.
Promotes Relaxation: The calming scent of lavender helps you unwind, even on your toughest days.
Versatile for Every Stage: Perfect for pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and beyond.
Designed to Make Pregnancy Easier
At approx 74 cm by 15 cm, our pregnancy wheat bags are the perfect size to provide warmth and comfort wherever you need it most. Here’s how they can help:
Soothe Back Pain: Place it across your lower back for instant tension relief.
Ease Hip and Pelvic Pain: Wrap it around your hips to reduce discomfort from body alignment changes.
Calm Leg Cramps: Relax your calves or thighs and say goodbye to midnight muscle spasms.
Relieve Round Ligament Pain: The gentle warmth eases those sharp lower abdominal aches.
Support Better Sleep: Drift off with the calming scent and warmth of lavender by your side.
More Than Just Pregnancy Support
These wheat bags aren’t just for pregnancy—they’re a multi-tasking marvel!
Use them to:
Relax tight shoulders and necks.
Ease Braxton Hicks contractions.
Soothe swollen feet after a long day.
Calm heartburn with gentle warmth on your upper abdomen.
Handcrafted Comfort from Hawke’s Bay
Each wheat bag is lovingly made with care, ensuring it’s as beautiful as it is functional. Because your comfort deserves nothing less.
Ready to Feel the Difference?
Don’t let discomfort overshadow this special time. Order your Pregnancy Wheat Bag today and discover the power of natural warmth and relaxation.
Make your pregnancy journey just a little bit easier—you’ve earned it!
Peri Spray – Your Postpartum Hero for Soothing Relief!
Let’s face it—after childbirth, your perineum could use some TLC. That’s where our Peri Spray steps in, bringing soothing relief and helping you focus on what really matters: bonding with your baby.
At Bellies to Babies, we’re all about supporting families across New Zealand through every step of the parenting journey—whether you’re growing, birthing, or raising your tiny human.
Why You’ll Love Our Peri Spray
Designed to make your postpartum recovery a breeze, our Peri Spray is packed with benefits you’ll appreciate from day one:
Instant Comfort: Eases pain and reduces inflammation so you can sit comfortably.
Gentle Healing: Antiseptic properties help prevent infection, while natural ingredients promote faster recovery.
Stitch-Friendly: A must-have if you’ve had tears or stitches—because healing shouldn’t have to sting.
NZ Proud: Locally made, because we care about supporting families and businesses in Aotearoa.
Easy to Use: Perfect for tossing in your labour bag and using as needed postpartum.
What Makes Natural Ingredients So Special?
We know how sensitive your skin can be postpartum, so our Peri Spray is thoughtfully crafted with natural ingredients that:
Soothe Delicately: No harsh chemicals—just gentle care for your tender skin.
Support Healing: Botanical extracts help reduce inflammation and promote recovery.
Calm Naturally: Essential oils provide a soothing, refreshing sensation.
Prioritise Safety: Free from nasties, so you can feel confident about what you’re using.
What is Your Perineum, and Why Does It Need Love?
Your perineum is the area between your vulva and anus, and during a vaginal birth, it’s designed to stretch—sometimes a lot. After all that hard work, it’s no wonder this area can feel sore, swollen, or even a bit traumatised in the days and weeks that follow.
Cue our Peri Spray, your new postpartum bestie, crafted to provide cooling, calming relief when you need it most.
Real Mum Reviews
New mums rave about how Peri Spray made their recovery smoother. Whether it’s the instant cooling sensation or the gentle healing boost, this spray has been a game-changer for so many.
Ready to Feel Like Yourself Again?
Don’t wait—add Peri Spray to your labour bag today. It’s the small but mighty addition that makes all the difference during your postpartum recovery. Because you deserve comfort while you embrace your new role as a parent!
Testimonials:
“I recently ordered some peri spray and it came in the most beautiful packaging with such a lovely personal card. I just wanted to say a huge thank you to you. It was very special.” Warm regards Lana x Sept 2025
“This perispray is the bomb!!! Didn’t sting at all and helped heal my lady bits”! - Lucy G
“You need this in your labour bag!” - Macie J Aug 2024
“I was sceptical at first, but it soothed my V just like it claims.” - Harriet K June 2024
“We made this during our Antenatal Classes with Janine, I’m so glad we did, it works well and I’m sure that’s why I healed so quickly. I brought one for my friend for her Baby Shower, she loved it too.” - - Monique S 2024
“I made my husband spray this on me after our son was born, the smell is delish and it really worked!” - Dan & Cacey M
“This Peri Spray is 10/10. I can confirm it does not sting, I had a 2nd degree tear and confirm it’s magic! Treat it like GOLD !!!” - K. Knibb April 2023
“I’m so glad I had this Peri spray in my labour bag, it was a godsend! “ - M. Snow June 2023
“We made this in Janine’s class and it really does work, I will be buying more for next time.” - Esther F 2023
“We brought everything, we loved the Pregnancy Wheat Bag, it helped my sore pelvis during the last few months of my pregnancy. The Peri-spray was a game-changer, I used it all the time and didn't have any soreness or infections, it made peeing comfortable! Everyone needs this in their bag. “ - Tessie W 2023
“I used this spray after my first birth and had to buy again for my second, such a great spray.” - Lucy A 2024
“Everyone needs this in their labour toolkit. Amazing, so amazing I've brought a few for friends that are expecting.” - Yasmin G 2024
Harness the power of acupressure and the Gate Control Theory with our Birth Comb, a simple yet revolutionary tool for natural pain relief and empowerment during labour and birth.
Why Choose the Birth Comb?
Labour is intense, but your pain management doesn’t have to be. The Birth Comb is designed to:
Distract from Labour Pain: By gripping the comb tightly, your brain focuses on the sensation in your hand, reducing the perception of contraction pain.
Stimulate Key Acupressure Points: Activates the Lao Gong point, known in Traditional Chinese Medicine for reducing anxiety, relieving pain, and boosting control.
Activate the Gate Control Theory: Disrupts pain signals traveling to the brain, offering natural, drug-free relief.
Provide Versatile Comfort: Its ergonomic design ensures a firm, comfortable grip, allowing you to use it effectively with one or both hands.
What Makes the Birth Comb Special?
Natural Pain Relief: A gentle, drug-free method to manage labour pain.
Compact & Lightweight: Easy to pack in your labour bag and hold for long periods.
Multi-Purpose: After birth, use it as a baby comb or a treasured keepsake from your birthing journey.
Unique Craftsmanship: Made from natural wood, each comb has its own grain pattern, making yours one-of-a-kind.
How Does It Work?
The Birth Comb combines two powerful pain management techniques:
Gate Control Theory: Gripping the comb creates a sharp sensation in your hand that "closes the gate" on pain signals traveling from your uterus to your brain, reducing the intensity of your contractions.
Acupressure: Applying pressure to the Lao Gong point (located in the palm of your hand) enhances pain relief, reduces anxiety, and boosts your sense of control during labour.
Designed with Labour in Mind
Unlike squeezing your partner's hand, the Birth Comb provides a focused and effective way to manage discomfort while keeping your hands busy and your mind engaged.
Your Labour, Your Way
The Birth Comb is more than a tool—it’s your partner in navigating labour with confidence and focus. Combine it with your favourite relaxation and self-help techniques for the ultimate natural pain relief experience.
Ready to experience the power of natural pain relief? Add the Birth Comb to your labour toolkit today!
