The Langham – Auckland

I stayed at a Langham in Pasadena and it set my expectations pretty high. That Langham is very nice. Not to say that this one isn’t nice — it is — but it’s not the same. Then again, Auckland is no Pasadena.
I didn’t realize this but I had booked a «club» level room which meant that not only did I get a room on the 9^th floor (out of 10) but that me and my 9^th floor roommates had exclusive access to the club lounge on the 10^th floor.
So, I know what you’re thinking. Actually, I don’t. I am assuming what you are thinking. I am most likely wrong. You might not even be thinking at all right now. You are just letting my sweet, sweet words wash over you like a bubble bath from your mama. But if you are thinking right now, I bet you’re thinking: who cares about a club lounge at a hotel in Auckland? What do you do there, just hang out?
Au contraire! There’s free food! Free drinks! Free kittens that you can take home with you! I repeat, free drinks!
Once we discovered all of this, we cancelled our remaining dinner reservations and just pigged out on all of the goodies. It was a pleasant surprise, to say the least. To say the most, it was life changing and I now can die in peace.
I feel more strongly about the least statement. Not sure about that most statement.

On our last day in New Zealand, we decided to treat ourselves to afternoon tea here at this gorgeous hotel. Not the priciest tea time I’ve been to, but prices are a little steep. The teas, however, were flavorful and there’s a lot for you to choose from. The sandwiches were tasty but not the best I’ve tasted. The scones were delicious and so were the jams. No complaints about the clotted cream, but I wouldn’t say it’s my favorite. The desserts were also delectable, especially the eclairs. Along with the usual tea finger foods, we were offered cake. We actually decided on trying all three but didn’t really like any of them. At the end of our meal, we also had the option of enjoying another cup of beverage of our choice. We decided on the green tea samurai (which was ok) and dark hot chocolate (which I loved).

The problem with the exchange rate being so favorable is that during my time in New Zealand, I kept finding myself in situations where I was easily the least important and distinguished and classy and cool person to ever be a guest at (wherever), just because I could actually afford it. My stay at the Langham very much continued that trend, as this is one insanely nice hotel. The room was perfect — the slippers to go with the bathrobe were a nice touch, as I never permitted my feet to contact that cold tile floor. The hotel has plenty of nice amenities, including a full spa, spacious changing rooms, heated pool/​sauna, bar and restaurant. We even had a bona fide high tea (apparently this is a tradition for the chain regardless of what country they’re in), which was pretty well executed overall. The staff were extremely friendly and competent; they were so good at putting me at ease that I started chatting with them to learn more about life in Auckland … to the point that I was actually accused of flirting.*
Literally the only thing I could have asked for is better internet, as I kept getting kicked off the network and having to manually reconnect. Talked to very nice guy who promised to fix the issue, but his fix didn’t work. So minor I can’t even dock a star.
We had a fantastic stay, loved our visit, and while I’d consider it exceedingly unlikely I’ll be able to visit Auckland again in the next decade, I know where I’ll crash when that day comes around again.
Travel tip: The airport shuttle bus drops you off literally right in front of the hotel, so no need for a cab unless you find yourself with too much money and too little imagination.
Travel tip part two: Auckland is a city essentially carved onto a freaking mountain, and the hotel is at the top of the hill; buses can take you from downtown back up to the top for something like a dollar, and they stop near the hotel. Walk up that hill once so you don’t feel lazy, and then public transport from there on out.
* To continue from oral argument (not transcribed here): I am convinced that my wife knows my misanthropic tendencies are so strong that she was not able to recognize me voluntarily engaging in small talk as anything but flirting. It happens once or twice a year, but usually when I’m at business events and find someone who’s as frustrated by the «mandatory fun» parts as I am.

One of the nicest stays, if not the nicest stay at a hotel. Highly recommend staying here. Everything was first class.

Fancy and expensive hotel but you really get what you pay for. Clean cosy and modern rooms. Excellent breakfast, nice services but to get a 5-​star rating it’s obviously lacking the ultimate kick or value for money premium

Great first impression for a first time visitor to New Zealand. Outstanding breakfast buffet included in our tour package. Plan on a two hour drive from the airport as its in downtown Auckland. Lots of places to go to nearby great location.

The Langham is among one of the best hotels I have stayed at during this trip to New Zealand. The staff could not have been friendlier or helpful and our bags were handled efficiently and within our rooms quite fast. Rooms were spacious, clean and just lovely. Bathroom was regular size, and room for 2 people to use the mirror at the same time. Great water pressure in the shower — yeah!
The hotel is centrally located from what I could tell and easy walking to many destinations. The area that was most amazing was the restaurant and the extensive, high-​quality delicious dishes that were available. All types of food for any nationality could be found. They had a small butcher’s freezer where you could pick out your protein and vegetables of choice and they would grill it right in front of you while you waited — or you could check out other areas and come back to get your grilled food — hot off the grill of course! The restaurant buffet was equally delightful with variety at breakfast too — you must check it out yourself. :-)

My stay at The Langham was superb. It began with a memorable greeting. Marcelo at the front desk provided me with excellent service. I’ve never felt a warmer welcome than from Stephanie, the concierge. She looked like a model from Chanel and was the kindest lady. I was beyond impressed when she personally delivered delicious chocolates to the room. The free shuttle to the harbour was a thoughtful and convenient service. The breakfast buffet was elaborate and included a chocolate fountain. We ordered room service for dinner. It arrived promptly and was great. I would definitely recommend The Langham while in Auckland!

Flew into Auckland for our 2-​week honeymoon where we would be traveling all over NZ. Needed a nice quiet place and a brand I knew we would trust and this was the place. Very familiar with the Langham in Pasadena, CA. This one is smaller and not as updated as that one — but the same level of courtesy and professionalism exists here.
Pros: Easy walk to everywhere you want to go in Auckland — yet not in the middle of their busy quarters, no large tour groups (at least not while we were there), Nice pool and health facilities, excellent spa treatment
Cons: Not as updated, if you book through a 3^rd party site you can’t get airline mile credits, the bathrooms aren’t as ventilated so there’s some mold on the walls — ALL this said — this is me being super picky and I really wasn’t bothered by any of this.
HIGHLY recommend booking a spa treatment at the Chuan Spa. Splurge on yourself. This really helped in overcoming our jet lag. The hotel is close enough to all the places you want to go in Auckland but not in casino central with tour groups or cruise lines coming in and out.
It’s in between the harbor and mount eden and an easy walk to Newmarket area which we wish we could have spent more time.
If we were to go back to Auckland — would definitely stay here again.

Great place to stay. Loved our beautiful room and high tea downstairs was a fun treat. Centrally located to parks & queens street. The shuttle was the best way to explore downtown and get a quick ride back to the hotel in the evening. The only criticism I had was that when I went to make hot tea, the kettle was very dirty and had mold swirling around in the bottom. Called the front desk & they apologized. Quickly replaced the kettle. Guess they need to clean & dry the kettles before storing them.

The staff and quality of service at the Langham area unparalleled. After our airline lost my husbands luggage, the hotel did everything it could to brighten our stay. We appreciate so much the special care received during our stay. The beds are extremely comfortable. The location is convenient, we were able to walk to the warf and Auckland museum in fewer than 30 minutes.
Next time I’m in New Zealand, I’ll definately stay at the Langham.

Front desk staff member Marcelo was very rude to us and lied to us about the availability of a room for the 4^th upcoming day of our stay, something we pre-​researched on
. The quality of the check-​in went down from there — no explanation of breakfast, had to extract internet information, lied to about internet quality, given incorrect information about self-​park in an attempt to upsell the valet. The form was demanded and he seemed impatient I wanted to read the contract. There were hidden fees in it that were not disclosed at the time of booking. Only upon extraction was I informed that we needed to give 24 hours notice for a room stay extension.
Upon inquiry about breakfast, informed it would be $ 39. OK, fine, when I asked about convenience stores in the hotel, they informed me there were none. But a «dairy» down the street was open til 10 (I rushed only to find out there are many stores around, open til 1am or later).
The porter was excellent and friendly. He wanted the key to our car and was polite and courteous when we requested to handle our own car and things. The reason I didn’t let him is that it is a rental car, and we don’t want to be held responsible if he scratched or damaged the car.
The internet in the room is less than cruise ship satellite speed. When a complaint was attempted to be registered, the line to the front desk was busy. When we got through, we were told there could be internet but it would cost us: $ 29 and up a day. Why? Because they use the same password for all guests at the hotel, subdividing the speed. This is supposed to be a 5-​star hotel in 2014. No one could help us right now. I see.
Beds were not correctly positioned as requested.
Information books in the room are dirty and grungy as was the welcome information box.
The classical music playing upon entry was done by second-​rate artists.
The Grand Room entrances were locked during ordinary hours in the rain when an entrance that wasn’t a block away would have been appreciated. Upon gaining entry to the guest area there, the pianos were found to be locked.
The bathroom sinks are tiny — too tiny to set all ordinary toiletries.
If this is the best hotel in New Zealand, they have a long way to go to reach a 2-​star in much of the midwestern United States. Basics are missing here.
This hotel has a few days to improve themselves for me, in which case the review will improve. Otherwise, I’ll add the problems within.

Treat myself an afternoon tea on birthday. The food and drink were okay. but the service at palm court was reached the hotel service standard. Best thing is their staff gave me a small gift for celebrate my birthday. That’s so sweet! I ll always remember them when my special events come. Lovely hotel!

In a word: AMAZING!
Just got home from a weekend at the Langham to celebrate our anniversary. Booked the Experience package, which included dinner and breakfast at Eight, late checkout til 1pm, and scored an upgrade due to my 1865 membership.
Both nights had drinks before and after dinner at Palm Court, hubby’s not the posh sort but even he got into it.
Delightful dinner and breakfast, Eight is outstanding and would be worth it for full price, let alone in the package (GREAT DEAL!).
Polite and friendly staff, and I had a massage at the spa — OMG, INSANE. I’m still blissed out :) Next time, I’m doing a day package at the spa, it’s unbelievably good and relaxing.
Determined to be back, and as soon as possible.
Can I move in?

The Langham is among one of the best hotels I’ve been to. Upon arriving, the person at the desk greeted me by name before I even had the chance to announce myself. «Welcome Mr. D_​_​_​, we’ve been expecting you. This was left for you.» Correspondence upon arrival at a hotel? I kind of felt like a spy on a mission. And that alone was worth the price (because actually, I was here on assignment so I technically didn’t have to pay anything.)
The rooms are great. Spacious. Wonderful water pressure. More than any other hotel I’ve been to, they are really serious about the turndown service here. It’s actually kind of nice. Very old-​world.
Centrally located to everything you would want to do in the city of New Zealand. The staff is helpful if you want to plan a trip to see the countryside. Tour buses stop right at the hotel for pick up and drop off.
For meals, the restaurant in the main lobby has a great breakfast buffet; much better than the sort of stuff you might expect from a Hilton or similar chain.
I was very happy with my stay at the Langham. My only complaint would be that they charge a service fee for paying by credit card.

We stayed at the Langham during our first 3 nights in New Zealand and loved it. I was very surprised how great the Chuan Spa and rooftop pool/​hot tub is. Since we were guests of the hotel we had free access to the Spa facilities which included a sauna, steam room, snail shower, and an ice off area. Even when the weather wasn’t great in Auckland the hot tub and steam room was the perfect way to relax after a long day of walking around in inclement weather.
The room was very clean and quite. The service we had all around the hotel and spa was great. I Would highly recommend The Langham for anyone looking for a nice stay in a great location for access to Auckland CBD.

Went to an awards dinner here and whilst the Langham has been good for events that I have been to in the past, last night the service was apalling!
They ran out of champagne flutes within the first half hour and trying to get a welcome drink on arrival was a nightmare. Once seated for dinner, the staff had no interest in getting drinks from the bar, nor did they have any knowledge about the food or wine.
Food was ok but defintely not worth my $ 250 ticket — dessert was macarons in the middle of the table (thumbs down).

The Langham Hotel is pretty great but it’s not the best hotel I’ve ever stayed at, and that’s what prevents it from being 5 stars in my book.
I would talk about the restaurants and the rooms etc — both are good and do the job (the High Tea is good, ‘Eight’ is expensive and it’s a fancy and all you can eat, and in terms of buffet it’s probably the best you can get, but just because it’s bottomless doesn’t mean it’s good, unless you’re a hungus. The rooms are a little dated but nice, the beds are amazing) but what I want to talk about is the fricken swimming pool.
There are very few outdoor pools in Auckland that are available to the public. The Langham is one of them, and it’s not even really available to the public, but if you are a guest of the hotel or if you’ve booked at treatment at their fancy Chuan Spa, you’ve got access to the pool and spa facilities all day (including the aromatherapy steam room, the sauna, the endless supply of towels). I can happily say that the rooftop pool at the Langham is one of my favourite places in Auckland on a sunny day. The pool is heated, it’s not chlorinated (it’s salt water) and surrounded by comfortable loungers. The spa pool has bubbles and is big enough to not have to talk to your neighbour. I have been known to book a room at the hotel just so I can swim in the pool (YOLO!) — that’s how good it is. They provide sunscreen and there’s sometimes even skewers of fruit passed around by the waiters. The food and drinks are expensive as fuck, as you’d expect, but I can tell you the fries and banana smoothies are worth the dollars.

So we’ve done the hotel night thing quite a bit and I had high anticipation for The Langham. The décor is yes, dramatically fab but I knew that already (I used to work at the place that supplied all the fabrics).
I’ve been to functions in the Great Room and there probably isn’t a better place in Auckland for an awards ceremony or the like. Our room was luxurious and our meals exceptionally good, the rooftop pool stunning and romantic in the dark and the Chuan Spa is just amazing.
I didn’t have any treatments but its serene ambience spreads to the pool area and changing rooms. This unexpected sanctuary on the rooftop blew my mind — well body, really. There is a snail shower which is literally shaped like a snail, blasting water at you from whichver direction you so desire at your preferred temperature and pressure. Then there’s the herbal steam room and what they call the «exhilirating ice experience» which all in combination left me wandering back to my room in my plush robe like a stoner after a meditation session.
The only disappointment at The Langham is the staff. They just don’t seem happy to be there and it’s a real downer as service really makes the experience. I would still go back in a heartbeat though and plan to just as soon as someone invents that Money Tree…

I’ve stayed at the Langham Hotel numerous times over the past year, and while every experience has been different, they’ve all been exceptional.
My first tip would be that their packages are well worth the money. Most of them include small extras like chocolates, a bottle of champagne and valet parking, while others include a late checkout (which I think we’d all love), and access to the club lounge. These truly make your stay a little more luxurious.
The king beds at the Langham are so comfortable you’d never want to get out, and their rooms supply just about everything you’d need. The staff, and especially the housekeeping at Langham are always so lovely when you encounter them– always a plus at any hotel.
The Chuan Spa is the highlight of The Langham– an outdoor pool, spa and sauna facilities are perfect for some rest and relaxation.
It’s easy to see why the Langham is a five star hotel– from your arrival to your departure, you are treated so nicely and staff always go out of your way to ensure your experience is an unforgettable one. I already can’t wait to go back!