Blog Posts
Lactation Consultant Approved: Why Christine Chooses The Breasties Pump
The Professional Verdict: Testing The Breasties When choosing a pump, who do you trust? At Breastfriend, we put our wearable pump, The Breasties, to the ultimate test: a one-month trial by a professional. Christine Houppermans, a qualified Lactation Consultant and first-time mother, spent four weeks rigorously testing The Breasties for comfort, output, mobility, and overall functionality. Her detailed findings, quoted below, confirm why this is fast becoming the top lactation consultant approved breast pump for New Zealand mums. 1. Comfort and Suction: Gentle Enough for Damaged Nipples Christine’s personal experience highlights a critical pumping pain point: comfort, especially when dealing with injury. Despite needing to pump due to nipple damage and pain, she found The Breasties highly effective and gentle. Christine explains, “Suction on this pump, I find it very comfortable. The reason that I pump is because of nipple damage and pain from feeding.” Comfort is often the make-or-break factor for mums pumping through injury or sensitivity. Her experience demonstrates that The Breasties provides the necessary hospital-strength suction (300mmHg) while remaining comfortable enough for sensitive skin and damaged nipples. 2. Hands-Free Mobility: Pumping While Parenting The biggest advantage of a wearable pump is the freedom it restores. For an LC and mum of a newborn, the ability to continue parenting without being tethered to a wall is a "game-changer." Christine notes, “I've been able to walk around the house while pumping. I'm able to do chores like laundry and dishes while I've got the pumps going. But more importantly, I can cuddle my baby while I'm using the pump, which is for me the most important feature.” This hands-free mobility means consistency, which is vital for maintaining supply: “Being able to hold and care for my baby while I pump has meant that I've never missed a pumping session since starting to use the Breastie pump.” 3. Output and Letdowns: Matching Traditional Pump Volumes A wearable pump must perform as well as its traditional, bulkier counterparts. Christine's objective testing confirmed that The Breasties delivers equivalent output. She shares her professional observation on letdowns: “With my traditional pump, I often have to use additional strategies such as using massage or changing the cycle speed to initiate another letdown. Whereas with The Breasties, I wasn't doing this, but I was still getting very similar output.” The volumes speak for themselves: “I was able to get similar volumes to what I get with my traditional pump (these results are individual to me) but I was pleasantly surprised of how effective the milk removal was with this pump.” During one of her filmed demonstrations, she recorded 160ml, noting: “I would expect to get anywhere between 150ml and maybe 180ml for an average pump. So, 160ml is right in that range.” 4. Essential Features Highlighted by a Professional As an LC, Christine pays attention to features that truly impact the pumping experience. Her favourite unexpected feature was the nightlight: “This pump also has a nightlight feature, which I love… I wouldn't purchase a pump without it. It can be used to help guide nipple placement during night pumping.” 5. Overall Verdict and Local Customer Service After a full month of regular use, Christine summarised her findings clearly: “My personal testing of this pump, I found it to be effective at removing milk, comfortable to wear and convenient to use.” She also gave a powerful endorsement of Breastfriend's local, personal support: “Buying a pump from an overseas brand or a baby chain, you're not going to get this level of customer service. Marie-Claire is easy to get in touch with if you have any issue and need any troubleshooting advice.” For Christine, a Lactation Consultant who relies on effective tools, The Breasties has become: “...an essential tool in my pumping journey." Ready to Use the Pump a Professional Recommends? The evidence is clear: when a Lactation Consultant chooses and recommends The Breasties, it confirms the pump's superior balance of comfort, mobility, and effective milk removal. SHOP THE BREASTIES PUMP
Learn moreThe NZ Gold Standard: Why Breastfriend is the Premium, Trusted Choice for Mums
We know our product is exceptional. Our verified customers consistently rate us 5/5 stars because they experience the quality, comfort, and local reliability we promise. Yet, when global discussions turn to "best wearable" or "premium pump options," international names like Elvie and Willow often dominate. At Breastfriend, we are aiming higher than simply being the "good local alternative." We are here to be recognized as the trusted safe bet and the definitive, premium NZ-optimised choice for mothers across Aotearoa. The perception gap between our perfect customer ratings and the market's broader view isn't about dissatisfaction; it’s about a difference in recognition and proof. We are changing that narrative by putting our unique, locally-focused strengths front and centre—proving that true quality is about outcomes, not offshore hype. The Three Pillars of Premium Pumping To us, being the premium option means more than just sleek design or a high price tag. It means providing a product and service that delivers better real-life outcomes where it matters most. 1. True Premium Quality is Inclusive Fit Global brands may look prestigious, but if they don't fit, they fail. Our commitment to inclusive flange sizes—offering 12 sizes and dedicated one-to-one fitting support—is a standard of care that the global market often overlooks. The Outcome: For mums worried about pain, atypical anatomy, or past pump trauma, our fit is the definition of a superior, comfortable experience. Our design ensures the pump fits you, not the other way around. Customer Proof: "I'm so impressed... it's super comfortable to wear and I'm pumping more than I ever have before. It is also great to have a wide range of flanges to choose from as my previous pump didn't provide the size I actually needed as an option!" — Tracey 2. True Premium Quality is Reliable Local Support When you invest in a premium product, you deserve premium support. Dealing with international customer service—with its time delays and high shipping costs that punish mums at the edge of the world—is frustrating. The Outcome: Our NZ-based, fast local shipping and easy access to parts mean that when you need support, you get a quick, personalized response from a founder who works right here in Tauranga. This local optimisation is a prestige feature that no global competitor can match. Customer Proof: "Huge thanks to MC for helping me through this and providing the best customer service on the planet. I’m recommending the Breasties to all my friends." — Bryn 3. True Premium Quality is Honest Guidance We prioritize realistic guidance from a founder who has been there—not generic, international marketing copy or gimmicky sales tactics found at big baby chains. Our promise of “Same Price, 365 Days a Year” shows we value your trust and time over creating sales anxiety. The Outcome: You receive the trustworthy, expert information needed to get the most out of your pump, maximizing both your milk output and your confidence. Customer Proof: "Pumping no longer feels like a chore and these have given me back some freedom in my day. Customer service is also absolutely amazing. Would highly recommend these to every pumping mum!" — Dipal 🎯 Proving Our Prestige: Why Our Reviews Speak Louder To firmly establish Breastfriend as the first-tier, premium option, we rely on the honest feedback of our community. See the Proof Yourself: Don't just take our word for it. We encourage you to read our verified 5/5 star reviews to see why NZ mums consistently choose Breastfriend for superior comfort, usability, and real-life outcomes over international alternatives like Elvie and Willow. Your Experience is Our Standard: Every review confirms that our focus on inclusive fit, realistic guidance, and reliable local support makes us the genuinely safer, more trusted choice. When you see our reviews, you see the true gold standard. Ready to experience the true difference premium local support makes? With gratitude, Marie-Claire Founder, Breastfriend.
Learn moreWe’re Not Just Fast, We’re On Your Side: The Breastfriend Difference
When you're navigating the beautiful chaos of early motherhood, the last thing you need is a faceless international corporation or the run-around from a big-box retailer. For too long, New Zealand parents have felt like they are at the edge of the world, often forgotten, especially when customer support from major baby chains is non-existent. You deserve support, speed, and honesty from someone who gets it—someone who is your local, reliable resource, right here in Aotearoa. At Breastfriend, we noticed that while global brands fight to compete on technology, they struggle to match the one thing that truly matters to a New Zealand mum: a personal, trustworthy relationship and dedicated aftercare. This is the heart of the Breastfriend Difference: We aren't just selling pumps; we are your local, community-driven partner, here to offer an emotionally safer, more personal choice. Local Logistics, Reliable Service: Why We Outperform the Chains The foundation of being "on your side" is built on quality and reliable service, contrasting sharply with the often frustrating experience of dealing with impersonal large retailers: The Breastfriend Difference The Customer Pain Point (Chains) The Relational Promise NZ-Based, Fast Local Shipping Dealing with slow, expensive offshore shipping or limited stock at big-box stores. We respect your time and urgency, delivering relief directly from within NZ. Easy Access to Parts & Support Non-existent customer service; no one on staff can answer your technical or fitting questions. We stand by our product and keep you pumping with dedicated, expert local support. Clear, Honest Pricing Chasing sales gimmicks and unclear policies that change constantly. We value your trust over a quick sale, offering the same fair price 365 days a year. More Than Logistics: A Partnership Built on Trust While quality and speed are non-negotiable, the fact that you are dealing with an honest, neighbourly brand—not a massive, detached baby chain—is what sets Breastfriend apart. 1. The Power of Our Honest Stance: Same Price, Every Day As a mother, you have enough to manage without having to hunt for a better deal. Our promise is simple: “Same Price, 365 Days a Year.” We believe in providing value, not creating anxiety, unlike the constantly shifting sales tactics of mass retailers. 2. The Founder’s Heart: Relatability and Professional Support This business was founded because I've been there. My own struggles with ill-fitting pumps and frustrating customer service drove me to curate this solution. I live and work right here in Tauranga, and when you reach out, you’re talking to someone who understands the exact reality of pumping in New Zealand. Our commitment is to be a reliable, professional partner in your journey. While we thrive on the connection and community, our promise is focused on delivering prompt, trustworthy support through our dedicated channels, ensuring you get the answers and products you need without delay. Exclusively pumping meant I was relying on pumping equipment to feed my newborn, so I know today how important it is to have reliable service for every mum in New Zealand. I'm giving mums the change I needed when I was pumping. — Marie-Claire, Founder. Join the Conversation: Your Voice is Our Endorsement The best measure of our commitment isn't what we say, but what our community says. We want other parents to see the authentic, human experience of choosing Breastfriend over the frustrating lack of service at baby chains. If you are a NZ mum, midwife, or lactation consultant who has had a positive, personal experience with our service, we encourage you to share your #BreastiesExperience on your own channels. By sharing your honest stories—not just in our store reviews—you help us show overwhelmed parents that Breastfriend is the genuinely safer, more personal choice. We are proud to be local, we are grateful for your trust, and we promise to always be on your side. With love and gratitude, Marie-Claire Founder, Breastfriend. SHOP THE BREASTIES
Learn moreIs High Suction Power Really the Best Breast Pump Feature? (Why New Zealand Mums Should Look Closer)
Megan at her hens do pumping hands-free with The Breasties Think high suction power equals a better pump? Think again. We understand the pressure of choosing the right breast pump NZ for you. Whether you're a first-time mum or a seasoned lactating veteran, the market is full of confusing specifications. Here's a fact you need to know: suction strength isn't the only key element. The comfort, efficiency, and smart features of a pump make all the difference to your overall milk supply and pumping journey. At Breastfriend, we celebrate every step of your journey. Our double pump, The Breasties, is engineered for both comfort and superior milk removal. We ensure you have support as you move through your day—yes, completely hands-free! We're here, pumping with you, every gentle, quiet, and efficient step of the way. Why Suction Strength Alone is Misleading Many companies focus on a high maximum suction number to sell their pumps, but research shows that painfully high suction does not equal more milk. In fact, it's often the cause of the common problems we hear about: painful pumping and even nipple damage. The key to efficient and comfortable milk expression is a combination of cycle speed and vacuum (suction) that effectively mimics your baby's natural nursing rhythm—delivering maximum strength only when it’s gentle and needed. Introducing The Breasties: Hospital-Strength Power Meets Hands-Free Freedom Brought to you by an exclusively pumping mum in New Zealand, The Breasties isn't just another pump; it's a solution to the most common pumping problems faced by mothers. We focus on true efficiency and unmatched support. The Breasties delivers the same high performance as those very bulky, expensive wired units, but in a completely wearable, discreet package. Unique Features That Make The Breasties Stand Out: Optimal Hospital-Strength Power: The Breasties offers 300mmHg suction—the proven optimal level to efficiently empty the breast without causing pain. This is the same strength found in traditional hospital pumps, but engineered for your comfort and convenience. The Completely Hands-Off Auto-Mode: Say goodbye to fiddling with buttons! Our unique auto-mode is designed to manage the entire pumping process for you, automatically transitioning between stimulation and expression phases. Just switch it on and let The Breasties do the work. A Quiet Solution for Discreet Pumping: Tired of that loud, distracting motor? The Breasties operates with minimal noise, making it perfect for office pumping, expressing while your baby sleeps, or simply enjoying a quiet moment. Pumping in the Dark? No Problem! The built-in night light feature ensures you can manage your settings and connect your parts easily during those late-night or early-morning sessions without waking up the whole house. Designed for Your Comfort: We understand that every body is different. We solve the problem of limited sizing by stocking flange sizes from 13mm up to 27mm, ensuring you can find the perfect, pain-free fit—even if you have smaller nipples. Solving Pumping Pain Points with Local Support When you choose The Breasties, you are choosing more than just a pump. You're getting a commitment to solving the biggest pain points in the pumping journey: Problem Solved How The Breasties & Breastfriend Deliver Pumps that don't empty Optimal 300mmHg hospital-strength suction and efficient cycles for complete breast drainage. Painful Pumping Flange sizes from 13-27mm for a custom, comfortable fit. Poor Customer Service Local NZ support, founded by an EP mum who understands your needs. Limited Parts Availability Local parts stocking means minimal downtime and quick access to spares. How long pumping takes Efficient auto-mode and powerful suction cut down on overall session time. Conclusion: Ready to Find the Best Breast Pump NZ? If you are looking for a powerful, efficient, and comfortable wearable pump backed by genuine local support and the specific parts you need, look no further. The Breasties offers the confidence of hospital-strength performance with the convenience of a hands-free, auto-managing design. Experience the Breastfriend difference today and make your pumping journey comfortable, quiet, and stress-free. Shop The Breasties Now
Learn moreThe Pump Parts Fridge Hack
The Pump Parts Fridge Hack is one I used everyday as an exclusive pumper and it's a clever, science-backed shortcut that thousands of mums swear by. It saves time, reduces stress, and makes pumping dramatically easier (especially at work). If you’ve ever been stuck in a bathroom trying to wash pump parts between meetings, this hack is about to change your life. What actually is this hack? The pump parts fridge hack is a simple method where you store your used (but clean/a part from the breastmilk) pump parts in the fridge between pumping sessions, instead of washing them after every single use. Cold temperatures slow the growth of bacteria, keeping the parts safe to reuse later the same day. This means you can pump multiple times at work without having to disassemble, wash, and dry everything after every session. It's sooo good... but can take up space in the fridge. So back when I was still pumping I went on a hunt to find the perfect container, and of course I found it at my favourite place to shop, Kmart. And for $4, you have the perfect fridge companion. Here she is, and fits your Breastie containers perfectly. If you have a more recent version of the Breasties you do not need a container as you can use your dust covers. Another great companion is the Breast Milk Pitcher. What is the pitcher method? The pitcher method is a breast milk storage technique where you combine milk from all your pumping sessions in one day into a single container (like this pitcher), refrigerate it, then portion it out into bottles or storage bags as needed. It's a favourite among pumping māmā because it saves time, reduces washing up, and gives baby consistent milk at every feed. Important Safety Considerations While the fridge hack is widely used, there are a few guidelines to follow: Only reuse parts in the same 24-hour period. Always keep parts cold, ideally in the back of the fridge (the coldest spot). Avoid using this method if your baby is premature, medically fragile, or immunocompromised unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider. Still sterilise all parts daily. xx Marie-Claire
Learn moreWorld Prematurity Day: Supporting the Mums
I don't have a preemie myself, but this day tugs at me now I'm a parent. Once you become a mother, you suddenly feel ache in your body for every other mum's story. Especially the ones who didn't get the soft landing they'd expected. One minute you're pregnant... the next you're standing beside an incubator learning how to pump. Most NICU mums still have to buy a pump... This is a reality, and not one they may have planned for. Most of us hope to have a journey where we can exclusively breastfeed (I was one of them) but then things don't quite work out, especially when you're in NICU. Yes, when you're there, you may get access to the big-hospital grade one, but when you're home? And overnight? Or you need do actually move around? You have to buy your own. And even though Breastfriend is cheaper than it's counterparts for a similar looking product, that's still money coming directly out of mum's pocket for a product she hasn't had time to research during a brutal and emotional time. That sits heavy with me. You just end up with what you're recommended initially, but there's no way of knowing whether that is best. Our donation to Little Miracles Back in August, when Breastfriend was 1.5 months old, we made our first donation to Little Miracles. We gifted: Our viral breast pumps Silver nipple cups Plenty of storage bags I did this but: We weren't big enough. We weren't established enough. We definitely weren't profitable. My dream? Outside of supporting the everyday mum in their pumping journey, I want to donate pumps regularly to NICU mums so they don't have to buy their own. So they can go home with a pump without thinking about money. So getting milk to their baby isn't another stress on top of a thousand others. But, that can only happen if I make this business profitable. Why today matters? Prematurity affects 1/10 babies. That's everywhere, every mum's group, every antenatal class, every stress, every classroom, every office, every job site and eventually, every retirement home. NICU mums are doing recovery, grief, pumping, and round-the-clock vigilance all at once. It's unbelievably tough, and it deserves awareness, care, actual practical support, not just hashtags. To every NICU parent spending today beside a tiny tiny baby, virtual hug. And to all the mums who'll walk this path in the future: I'm building this business with you in mind.
Learn moreFinding The Right Flange
Using the correct flange size is essential for good suction and milk transfer. The wrong size can cause poor output, clogged ducts, mastitis, reduced supply, and nipple pain or damage.
Learn more🎄 Breastfriend Christmas Shipping Cut-Off Dates 2025
We’ll keep dispatching orders right up until the shutdown, but anything placed after these dates may not arrive before Christmas Day.
Learn moreBeyond the Pump: Why Flange Fit is Our Core Promise to Every Mum
When I launched Breastfriend, my goal wasn't just to sell a pump—it was to deliver a truly better pumping experience for New Zealand mums. I know firsthand, from my own body and my own pumping journey, that the existing options were often inadequate. I did the rigorous research and deep digging, using my own struggles to identify the critical gap: the lack of inclusive sizing and support. I searched the globe to curate and deliver a breast pump system that finally meets the standard of care every mum deserves. What I learned quickly from our incredible Breastie community is that "better" isn't just about suction or battery life—it's about feeling seen, supported, and confident. For too long, the industry has forced mums to fit their bodies to the pump. We decided to flip that script. Our Core Brand Belief: The Pump That Fits You, Not the Other Way Around At Breastfriend, driven by my own experience, we made a commitment to demand and deliver a system where our extensive range of sizes and personalised fitting support are not just a feature; they are our core brand belief. For us, inclusivity isn't a marketing buzzword—it's a mission to address the deep emotional reassurance every mother needs when pumping. The Reality: Why One Size Doesn't Fit All Most breast pump brands offer a handful of sizes, leaving many mums—especially those with very small nipples, elastic tissue, or nipple asymmetry—to endure pain, low output, and stress. If you're a mum who has experienced: Pain or discomfort during pumping. The stress of low milk output. Past trauma with ill-fitting pumps. Worry about atypical anatomy or post-surgery changes. ...you know the difference a perfect fit makes. It’s the difference between an efficient, comfortable session and quitting early. We Lead with Inclusivity: More Sizes, Deeper Support We are proud to be the most inclusive breast pump brand in New Zealand, offering a huge range of sizes, including those often left out. Breastfriend's Difference Why This Matters to You 12 Flange Sizes (The widest range in NZ) Ensures you can find the precise fit you need for comfort and optimal output. Very Small Increments Crucial for nipples that fall between standard sizes, eliminating pain and maximising efficiency. Support for Asymmetry Many women have two different size nipples. Our ability to support a one-to-one fit addresses this common, but often ignored, reality. Dedicated Fitting Education Providing free nipple rulers and guides with your pump means you are never left guessing about your size. This inclusivity functions as deep, vital emotional reassurance. You shouldn't have to settle when it comes to feeding your baby. A Thoughtful Solution for Every Mum We are committed to being the thoughtful solution for all body types and fit challenges. We want to be the brand that mums like you associate with leadership in body diversity and comfort—a brand that is recognized as the definitive solution for all pumping challenges. This is why we focus on supporting every mum, including: Mums with small or "hard-to-fit" nipples. Mums experiencing nipple asymmetry. Mums with elastic tissue that requires specific sizing. Mums post-surgery or with other unique anatomical needs. You deserve a pump that respects your body's uniqueness. What You Can Do Next To empower our community and help others, we are actively seeking stories and case studies that highlight challenging fit scenarios where Breastfriend has provided the perfect solution. If you have a story about how our inclusive sizing or one-to-one fitting support made your pumping journey better, please share it with us! Together, we’re setting a new standard for comfort and confidence in breastfeeding support. With love and gratitude, Marie-Claire Founder, Breastfriend. SHOP THE BREASTIES
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