The Inside Scoop - February 2026
Welcome to 2026!
It is hard to believe we are already well into February, but the year is certainly shaping up to be a cracker for the New Zealand ice cream and gelato industry.
Following Kathie Bartley’s departure last year, we are delighted to have a new team managing our Awards and promotion. Nicola McConnell, who has worked alongside Kathie for the past five years, is joined by winemaker and awards specialist Jo Gear. You can read their bios further down in this newsletter.
The Board is currently tackling several projects, PLEASE RESPOND - your input is vital to our success:
2027 Centenary: To celebrate 100 years of our association, we are developing a special programme. If you can spare some time to join our centenary sub-committee, please email Jenny de Lisle.
Developing Young Talent: We all know the struggle of finding great staff. To encourage the next generation, we’re looking for a few makers to visit a local school and help students craft an entry for the 2026 NZ Ice Cream and Gelato Awards. If you’re keen to mentor these young creators, please email Nicola McConnell.
Queenstown AGM: Based on your post-event feedback last year, we are considering holding our AGM in Queenstown (with an online option) around Wednesday 13 or Wednesday 20 May. This would include site visits to local members and a casual dinner. Before we finalise the logistics, we need to gauge interest. Please email Nicola McConnell if you would like attend.
Webinars: As part of our mission to educate members we plan to host at least three webinars over 2026. To ensure we're offering content you want please let us know your ideas - what topics are you interested in? Who do you want to hear from? Please email Nicola McConnell with webinar speaker and topic suggestions.
Finally, a warm welcome to all our new members. Our Board details are listed below—please reach out to any of us with your feedback or suggestions.
Dene Brosnan Board Chair, New Zealand Ice Cream Association