Airstream Icecream

Cafes key icon.
Cafes key icon.

Monday7:15 am – 4:00 pm.

Tuesday7:15 am – 4:00 pm.

Wednesday7:15 am – 4:00 pm.

Thursday7:15 am – 4:00 pm.

Friday7:15 am – 4:00 pm.

Saturday9:00 am – 4:00 pm.

Sunday9:00 am – 4:00 pm.

12 Hereford St, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch

021 320 169

Nestled on Christchurch’s Rolleston Ave, just across from the Botanical Gardens, Airstream Café is a charming little gem operating from a lovingly restored vintage Airstream caravan. Proudly family-run since opening in 2020, Airstream is known for its laidback atmosphere, exceptional real fruit ice creams, Coffee Supreme and some of the best bagels to be found in the ‘03.

Handily located near the hospital and the Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora, there’s always a steady stream of customers come rain or shine. Owner Terence and his family imported the 1947 Airstream from California, and being number 62 off the production line, it truly is a vintage gem. They have maintained the Airstream’s integrity, sourcing specialty parts directly from the US and doing their best to keep its original form - all while squeezing in the various work stations needed.

On a warm day, there’s nothing better than taking your pup for a walk and stopping at Airstream to unwind with one of their real-fruit ice creams and bask in some sunshine. If the weather gods aren’t smiling on Ōtautahi, never fear, one of Airstream’s gourmet bagels and a cup of Supreme coffee are just what you need when it’s grey outside. Airstream has Boring Oat Milk on hand for all the alternative milk lovers out there and they love stocking and supporting this New Zealand brand.

The bagel selection has gained a bit of a cult following with indulgent toppings to nostalgic Kiwi classics like baked beans, grilled cheese with vegemite, and a simple honey and butter. The names alone are quite iconic and the Airstream team enjoy collaborating on them, such as the ABBA, Pants on Fire, Vegie Wedgie or Colonel Mustard.

Serving up great food and coffee is one part of Airstream’s offering; another is giving local youth employment opportunities. Terence explains how they are passionate about giving first-timers a real shot and offering supportive, hands-on work experience. So not only can you enjoy your bagel, ice cream or coffee knowing the quality is some of the best in the city, you too can join in uplifting the next generation.

Words by Julia Rutherford & Photography by Nancy Zhou

Information not correct? Report an error

Location

12 Hereford St, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch

Nearby Places

The National

Concrete table covered in ceramics.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Fashion key icon. Galleries and museum key icon.

The National has been at the forefront of the contemporary art scene in Christchurch for over a decade.

Stencil

Leather handbags hanging in the window at Stencil.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Fashion key icon.

Variety is the spice of life, and you’ll certainly find something to spice up your wardrobe at Stencil.

Kong

Looking into art deco style bar where a waitress is taking a drinks order from two men surrounded by panelled walls and old school artwork
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Bars key icon.

Ready to flee the 21st century for the night? We know just the place.

Grizzly Baked Goods Cashel Street

Yellow painted walls inside Grizzly Baked Goods.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Cafes key icon.

Christchurch locals will need no introduction to Grizzly Baked Goods; first appearing on the scene at the Christchurch Farmers Market with their epic bagels in 2013 and...

Similar Places

Tap Room by Vesuvio

Customers enjoying their drinks at Tap Room by Vesuvio.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Bars key icon.

Vesuvio has been on the Christchurch hospitality scene for over 30 years and they have recently added a Tap Room to their Papanui Road venue.

The Church Pub

The busy bar inside The Church Pub.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Restaurants key icon.

The Church on the corner of Manchester and Worcester Streets in the heart of the city is a cornerstone of Christchurch hospitality.

The Crossing

The Crossing courtyard.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Bars key icon. Cafes key icon. Fashion key icon.

The Crossing is one of Christchurch’s greatest accomplishments post-earthquakes and has become the city centre’s premium shopping destination.

Dux Central

Dux Central exterior, Christchurch.
Place Christchurch & Canterbury
Bars key icon. Restaurants key icon.

If bars could be left or right handed, Dux Central would be ambidextrous. There’s nothing this place can’t be.