Kia ora is a traditional Maori greeting that one hears often in New Zealand. Like “aloha” in the Hawaiian Islands, it may be used to say hello or goodbye or generally express good wishes. In this largest of Polynesian cities, the influences of the Maori, New Zealand’s traditional people, are woven into the fabric of daily life, but this is also a city where many diverse cultures mingle harmoniously. That diversity is clearly reflected in the staff here at the Langham, and I believe it is one of the factors that helps make the hotel’s international guests feel comfortable and assured that their needs will be understood and met.

While I will be writing a GT Tested review on my stay at The Langham Auckland in an upcoming issue of Global Traveler, I thought I’d share with you some aspects of the hotel that won’t be included in the scope of that piece. The hotel underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation in 2006 after joining the Langham brand, following its existence as the Sheraton Auckland, and its sophisticated, elegant decor is in keeping with its status as a five-star property. It is centrally located at the crest of a hill overlooking the city close to the CBD, major retailers and the University of Auckland. Half-hourly free shuttle service provides guests a five-minute ride to and from the harbor area, which is a lively spot with plenty of restaurants, coffee shops and shopping options. On our first evening in town, our press group took a brief tour of the hotel with managing director Jeffrey van Vorsselen.

These days one hears a lot about going green and sustainability and environment-friendly practices, but the public has grown justifiably wary of those who blow their own horns too loudly in this area — “greenwashing” becoming the new term of the moment. While the Langham does feature its fleet of luxury hybrid Lexus limos, most of the hotel’s practices which have earned it Green Globe and EarthCheck certification and national and international environmental awards are quietly carried out behind the scenes. Another feature is unique to this property alone. Just off the lobby is an outdoor room containing a native tree weta habitat. Offering guests the opportunity to learn about this indigenous and ancient insect (harkening back to the dinosaur age) which serves as a recycler of the bush, the habitat takes the place of generic hotel landscaping while supporting the Langham’s environmental program and giving one a close-up look at these somewhat alarming-looking but harmless creatures.  

Several meeting rooms and the Great Room (with a capacity of 900 for banquet seating or 1,400 theater-style) make the Langham a popular spot for conventions, meetings and special events. We also got a peek at a couple of the top-floor suites, which are several steps above the already elegant guestrooms. The Langham offers two Studio suites, which Jeffrey indicated are extremely popular with travelers who may have an extended stay in Auckland and appreciate the larger space and fully equipped kitchenette. We also checked out one of the  Chuan Spa Havens, located conveniently adjacent to the Spa and available exclusively as part of special spa experience packages. The soothing, elegant, Chinese-influenced decor and spacious bath with infinity tub clearly offer a romantic retreat of great appeal.

All these plus many other amenities and options, great dining venues and gracious, genuine service make The Langham Auckland an experience I would highly recommend to anyone visiting this part of the world.

— Patty Vanikiotis, proofreader