A sweet new chapter
The bright orange building on Rotherham Street has quickly become a familiar sight, bringing Rollickin’s gelato, hot desserts, and a splash of colour to one of Christchurch’s busiest suburbs.
“We’re loving being in the Riccarton neighbourhood,” says Rollickin’s founder, Jed Joyce.
“Opening Riccarton has been a lot of work to get here and a brave step up for our team. Rollickin has just grown by a third.”
At 28, Jed has grown up alongside both Rollickin and the new Christchurch.
“Riccarton feels a bit random, a bit chaotic, super social and very rollicking.”
The great range of eateries here only enhances their dessert offering.
“It’s got the mall, the markets, UC, and the very beginnings of Christchurch’s history – Riccarton House. It’s also got our people – families, students, and the late-night daters – who want a dessert destination they can swing by.”
The store has Rollickin’s much-loved gelatos, sorbets, and desserts, alongside a fun atmosphere that’s made for hanging out. In winter, that means pairing a favourite gelato flavour with one of Rollickin’s house-made nana-style hot desserts – big enough to share, cranking fires, and all.
“We also make everything fresh. Real milk, cream, fruit, no shortcuts. You can see gelato chefs and bakers creating right here in store.”
“I personally think it is never too cold for gelato, but in winter, we crank up the hot stuff.”
Jed says giving back to the community that gives to us – that’s the “love ya back” driving everything Rollickin does.
“The secret to our longevity? We’re all in on Ōtautahi. Always have been. We reckon it’s the best city in New Zealand and everything we do is about proving that right.”
That local focus shows up fast. Rollickin Riccarton has already launched a neighbourhood flavour (Riccy Baker), kicked off local eatery collabs, organised a Riccarton Bush Walk, supported UC Events, and created Riccarton Kids Fest Gelato Classes for July school holidays.
A campaign celebrating what Jed calls “the greatest licks”, where customers rank their favourite scoops, is already underway.
For Rollickin, Riccarton is another scoop on the cone of community.