From baking biscottis in her home kitchen to creating millions of cookies, some even served on Air New Zealand flights, it’s been an incredible journey for the founder of Molly Woppy.
For over two decades, Hayley Molloy and her team at Molly Woppy have been on a mission to spread joy—one cookie at a time.
What began in 2002 as a humble venture in a family kitchen has blossomed into a celebrated New Zealand brand, crafting artisan cookies that have become synonymous with love, quality, and unforgettable flavours.
Hayley and her partner, Alistair Parker, first brought Molly Woppy to life with a passion for authentic, handcrafted baking. “We love what we do,” Hayley shares. That love is evident in every step of their process. Their Avondale bakery, which began as a small operation, now employs over 20 dedicated team members.
Here, we put Hayley in the hot oven with a batch of quick-fire questions about her business and life!
What’s the secret to running a business for so long?
Hard work, flexibility, and passion have been key to our success. From the start, we’ve been committed to producing great food and staying passionate about what we do. We also believe in bringing in experts who can challenge us and help us grow—it strengthens our team and encourages collaboration.
Tell us more about the Love at First Bite® slogan, its origin, and what it means to you.
It's literal—we pack our cookies with yummy stuff (choc chips, cranberries, etc.) so every bite is magical. Love at First Bite® flows into everything we do—sourcing ingredients, caring for customers, staff, and suppliers. It’s about staying true to our values, embracing challenges, and prioritising unparalleled quality in every decision we make.
What does self-love mean to you, and how do you practice it?
To me, self-love is about doing what you believe in and making decisions that align with your personal values—even when they're not the most popular or convenient. Being totally authentic is an important way to practice self-love too—knowing yourself and your values, setting boundaries, living in the moment, forgiving yourself, and surrounding yourself with support. It's also about doing what you love and are passionate about—something as simple as a walk on the beach with our dog or throwing a dinner party brings happiness too.
What’s your go-to cookie?
Our Gingerbread dipped in White Chocolate—perfect with a hot coffee! I also love our gluten-free, plant-based Choccy Coconut Ruff—it’s chocolatey, coconutty, and so moreish!
If cookies could talk, what would they say on Valentine’s Day?
They’d say—the way to the heart is through the stomach—cookies are the perfect gift to share and fall in love with.
Do cookies taste better when shared or savoured solo?
Both! Sharing cookies with loved ones creates lasting memories, but treating yourself in solitude is equally special. Many customers grew up with our cookies and now share them with their own children, continuing the tradition.
A yummy Gingerbread Red Heart Twin Pack by Molly Woppy is included in MyTreat's February 2025 'Self-Love' Wellness Box amongst other treats. Subscribe now for a gift to yourself or others!