The Langham name has stood for refined hospitality since its London debut in the 1860s, and its Auckland outpost carries that heritage well. With 411 rooms close to both the business district and the city’s main sights, it is one of the most dependable luxury addresses in New Zealand’s largest city.
At a glance
Location: 83 Symonds Street, Auckland, New Zealand
Rooms: 411 rooms and suites
Stayed in: Executive Club Room, high floor
Best for: business travellers and couples who value service and a great club lounge
Reviewed: November 2016
8.9 out of 10
Setting and arrival
The hotel is easy to reach by car, and the valet team made arrival effortless, taking care of parking on site while check-in was handled quickly and warmly. From the upper floors, the views stretch across the city towards the harbour.
The rooms
My Executive Club Room, on a high floor, was decorated in warm tones with dark wood and classic furniture. A king bed faces a flat-screen TV and desk, and a round table beside the large windows makes a pleasant spot to work or take in the skyline. The marble bathroom has a combined shower and bath.
Practical touches are all present, from coffee and tea facilities and a minibar to an iron and board. Blackout curtains guarantee a proper lie-in, and the Wi-Fi was quick throughout.
The Club Lounge
The real reason to book a club room is the Langham Club Lounge, which is among the best I have used anywhere. Hot breakfast, afternoon tea and evening aperitifs are beautifully presented and attentively served, and butler services such as shoeshine, packing and pressing are on hand. Antiques and classic furnishings give the space a sense of occasion.
Dining and drinks
Eight Restaurant is the main dining room, serving international dishes from breakfast through dinner. In the lobby, Palm Court is the hotel’s social hub, a stylish lounge bar for lunch, afternoon tea or simply watching Auckland pass through.
Spa and facilities
Chuan Spa draws on traditional Chinese medicine, with treatments such as a herbal salt scrub followed by time in the steam room. The fitness centre is modern and well equipped, and the outdoor area has a heated saltwater pool and Jacuzzi surrounded by sun loungers. A complimentary shuttle runs to the waterfront, and event spaces can host up to 900 guests.
The verdict
What lifts The Langham Auckland is its people. From reception to the club lounge, the team anticipated needs before they were voiced and did so with genuine warmth. Add elegant interiors, an excellent spa and a club lounge that sets the standard, and this is one of the finest places to stay in Auckland, for business or pleasure.
- Rooms: 8.5
- Service: 9.5
- Dining: 8.5
- Facilities and spa: 9.0
- Location: 9.0
The Langham Auckland, 83 Symonds Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand. Visit the hotel website.
David stayed as a guest of the hotel. Based on a stay in November 2016. Facilities, menus and prices may have changed since.
