The 3 Top Ice Creams in Rotorua That’s Worth the Brain Freeze
David Sims
| Last Updated: February 2025 I don’t know about you, but I hate when ice cream tastes like a freezer burn—or worse, like it’s been sitting out in the sun for hours.
You know, that sickly sweet, almost chemical flavor that makes your stomach churn? I’ve had my fair share of those ice cream disasters, especially when traveling.
Thankfully, Rotorua has some solid ice cream shops. So if you ever find yourself in town craving a seriously good scoop, here are my go-to spots to trade freezer-burned cones for creamy deliciousness.
1. Lady Janes Ice Cream Parlour
Media credit: ladyjanesicecream
Address: 1092 Tutanekai Street
Phone: +64 7 347 9340
Operating Hours:
- Monday – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 9:30 PM
Price: $
Lady Jane’s has the most incredible ice cream selection I’ve ever seen—seriously, over 40 flavors! It’s overwhelming in the best possible way. I always struggle to choose, but that’s half the fun.
The location is perfect—easy to find and right in the heart of Rotorua. The staff are always super friendly, adding to the experience. Beyond the ice cream, their sundaes are amazing, and the Danish cones are a must-try.
Pro Tip:
If you’re looking for a healthier option, try their real fruit ice cream.
2. Scoop’d Ice Cream and Bubble Tea
Media credit: scoopdrotorua
Address: 5 Tarawera Road, Lynmore
Phone: +64 7 216 0159
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 11 AM to 6 PM
Price: $$
Website
Scoop’d’s bubble waffle cones are freaking amazing—crispy, sweet, and packed with a ton of ice cream. My go-to is the M&M’s one—it’s loaded with M&Ms, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and a generous scoop of ice cream.
Speaking of ice cream, they offer everything from classic chocolate to unique flavors like watermelon and ube boysenberry. Seriously, there’s something for everyone.
Their sundaes are also fantastic. ’m a sucker for the Bananuts and Nutella, but the Lotus Biscoff and the hot fudge with chocolate chip are absolute winners too.
Pro Tip:
Do yourself a favor and order their bubble tea. I like their strawberry milk one and their fried Oreos are absolutely addicting.
3. Gelato Mio
Media credit: em.mouthful
Address: 1210 Arawa Street
Phone: +64 7 460 6868
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Friday – 12 PM to 3 PM
Price: $
Gelato Mio has an awesome, creative, and diverse flavor selection. While their gelato is delicious, their ice cream is just as good.
They go way beyond the usual flavors, offering unique options like red wine, rum, and classic Italian favorites.
The texture is unbelievably smooth and creamy—never icy—and the portions are generous, making it an excellent value.
You can choose between a cup or a cone, with up to two scoops.
Pro Tip:
They also offer dairy-free ice cream, so everyone can enjoy a scoop—no compromises on flavor!
