Sweets
24 March 2025
The best ice cream spots in Ōtautahi Christchurch
Here are our top picks for the perfect scoop.
Explore Christchurch scoop by scoop
It wouldn't be a real Kiwi summer without a delicious ice cream to end the day - or start it, if you're up for it! Luckily, getting your ice cream cravings sorted in Ōtautahi Christchurch is pretty easy!
Rollickin' Gelato
Made from local organic milk, Rollickin' Gelato's super creamy whip creates delicious gelato, while their sorbet caters to all dietary needs. Those who are gluten, dairy, egg or soy-free can trust they will find safe and delicious options here. Rollickin' is constantly coming up with new flavour creations full of cake chunks, berry sauces, chocolate dollops, marshmallow fluff, hokey pokey pieces and more.
They even have hot desserts where you can pick the perfect scoop to match with whatever you choose. Rollickin' provides free tastings, has groovy music to enjoy as you eat your treats, and is open late. Their two locations are a must-visit!
Ben & Jerry's
Indulge in a scoop (or three), at the only Ben & Jerry's shop in the South Island, or grab one on the go from their Silver Bullet caravan on Manchester Street. Renowned for their creative and cleverly named flavours, including 'Phish Food' (containing actual chocolate fish) and 'Chunky Monkey' (we'll let you guess that one) - Ben & Jerry's is the place to stay cool when exploring the CBD during sunny days or balmy evenings!
The Gelato Lab
The Gelato Lab in Opawa uses traditional Italian methods to make their beautiful artisan gelato. Their gelato is blended from scratch by their Italian gelato chef with flavours such as fresh mint and white chocolate, gingernut, and Italian sour cherry. On weekends they now even have an entire dairy free cabinet filled with 9 different flavours of dairy free treats!
Gelato Dolce
During the warmer months, Gelato Dolce has its cute red cart parked outside The Arts Centre and you'll often find them at the Ohoka Farmers' Market. Their gourmet gelato and sorbet are handcrafted with locally sourced and Italian ingredients. They often create new flavours, but their must-try is the 'Stracciatella,' vanilla ice cream with chocolate chips - a real Italian classic.
Ice Cream Charlie
One of New Zealand's ice cream pioneers started his business in Christchurch. In 1903, Sali Mahomet aka Ice Cream Charlie set up his cart in Cathedral Square and sold ice cream for the first time. Ice Cream Charlie has since passed on, but his legacy remains. Ice Cream Charlie's recipes are still used today and every summer you'll find his Vanilla Truck parked in Victoria Square.
Fuse
Fuse is a real fruit ice cream trailer positioned opposite the playground at Cashmere Road. They offer a wide range of fruits to choose from, or if you're into trying new things, then the 'Real Nut' ice creams are a must! What could be better than a blend of peanut butter or Nutella with ice cream or frozen yogurt - yum! Fuse also make a range of ice cream sauces onsite - white, milk and dark chocolate just to name a few.
Utopia Ice
Utopia Ice started with a small ice cream cart at the Christchurch Farmers' Market 9 years ago, and has since expanded into the popular store it now is in Sumner. It's here that local couple, Mandy and Sebastian handmake their French-style artisan ice cream, which is truly decadent. They also specialise in plant-based ice cream - perfect for our vegan friends!
Berry Healthy Real Fruit Ice Cream and Yoghurt
If you're after a Kiwi classic, then head to Redcliffs Dairy, a popular spot with people from all over Christchurch. They sell scoop ice creams in a variety of flavours, but it's their generous portion sizes that keep people coming back. Make sure to check them out on your hunt for ice cream over the summer.
Redcliffs Dairy
If you're after a Kiwi classic, then head to Redcliffs Dairy, a popular spot with people from all over Christchurch. They sell scoop ice creams in a variety of flavours, but it's their generous portion sizes that keep people coming back. Make sure to check them out on your hunt for ice cream over the summer.
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