The Inside Scoop - April 2026

Kia ora. As we move into the cooler weather, the Board and Technical Committee have been busy laying the groundwork for a successful 2026 judging season and beyond. 

Here is an overview of our current priorities and upcoming events.

NZ Ice Cream and Gelato Awards

We are committed to ensuring our Awards remain the gold standard for the industry. To that end, we are reviewing the criteria for the NZ Ice Cream and Gelato Awards judging. Our Technical Committee will shortly finalise these details, ensuring the entry pack is ready for distribution shortly thereafter.

For those planning to enter the 2026 NZ Ice Cream & Gelato Awards, please mark your calendars for our pre-judging webinar on 5 May, where we will walk through the updates and hear from Chief Judge, Geoff Scott.

2026 AGM Parnell, Auckland

Our Annual General Meeting is officially confirmed for Wednesday 27 May at 4:15 PM at the Rose Park Hotel in Parnell. Those not in Auckland can join online and a link will be shared closer to the date. 

In addition to reviewing the annual accounts and voting for the Board we have added a special agenda item: a 100th-anniversary celebration brainstorm. 

Following the formal proceedings, the house bar will be open for drinks, and we encourage everyone to stay for an informal dinner at a local restaurant to catch up with colleagues.

I look forward to seeing many of you in Parnell next month as we celebrate our past and plan for our future.

Dene Brosnan Board Chair, New Zealand Ice Cream Association