Bespectacled’s Pene Fox. Credit: Kathy Hunter

Dispensing optician Pene Fox has launched Bespectacled Optical Dispensary.

With more than 35 years’ experience in the industry, Fox said it has always been her dream to start her own independent practice. “I am passionate about eyewear and it is my superpower to help people find the perfect frame or sunglass for them. If you’re wearing glasses all day, every day, they should be something you love.”

Part of Pene Fox's lovingly curated offering

Having worked as a locum for many years, Fox said the shift in mentality around working from home brought about by Covid opened the door for her to realise her vision. Many customers who used to travel for work to Auckland are now not only spending more time locally but are also very happy to support local, she said.

Based out of her home in Ti Point, Bespectacled offers a curated collection of high-quality frames and sunglasses. Having set up accounts with all the lens laboratories, Fox said she can offer the best possible lens choice for a customer’s particular prescription. “So often people are given their prescriptions and just thrown in at the deep end, trying to find the right frame among hundreds, which can be stressful. I want a calm, enjoyable, bespoke service for my customers.”

Although customers are welcome to see her in her practice, she said she’s also happy to visit them at home, if they prefer. Bespectacled stocks eyewear from France, Spain and Italy, and Bay of Plenty's Good Gryf.