Room check: The Langham, Auckland

The Executive Suite at The Langham Hotel, Auckland. Photo / Supplied

Shandelle Battersby enjoys a mini-break at a luxury city hotel.

Check-in experience? Smooth as silk - we do love valet parking, even if one's car sticks out like a slightly dusty sore thumb on this luxury hotel's forecourt. The cheery staff member at the check-in desk sorted us out in a flash and we were in our room about five minutes after walking in the front door.

Room? We immediately made ourselves at home in one of the Langham's Executive Suites, which have two bathrooms, a separate lounge, a dining table, two huge flat-screen TVs and an office area in case you need to crunch some numbers during your stay. Furnishings are opulent; think plush, elegant seating, classic dark wood and the odd flash of gold.

Price? One of these suites will set you back at least $715. This includes access to the hotel's Club Lounge (which hosts continental breakfast, afternoon tea, evening drinks and canapes) and other privileges such as various butler services and free wi-fi. Classic rooms start at $195.

Who owns it? The Langham Hospitality Group, which has been operating five-star hotels across the globe since opening its first, in London, in 1865.

What's so good about this place? The Langham is probably the grande dame of Auckland's hotels - elegant, luxurious and a timeless classic.

And the bad? Unless K Rd's your vibe, you're a cab ride or a bit of a hike away from the city's vibrant dining and shopping spots such as Federal St, Britomart and the Viaduct. There is also, however, a complimentary city bus shuttle service available.

The lobby of the Langham Hotel. Photo / Supplied

Claim to fame? The hotel sits on the historic site of Partington's Windmill, Charles Partington's flour mill factory, which was a local landmark until its demolition in 1950.

The bed? One of the Langham's own Blissful beds, which you can actually buy if you can't bear to be parted from it after your stay. It's worth considering.

The grounds? None to speak of, but a very nice surprise is the 12.3m heated outdoor saltwater pool on Level 2. Surrounding it are plenty of sunloungers, a small bar, and a sizeable jacuzzi.

The bathroom? As mentioned above there are two, both marble, and the spacious main bathroom has a separate shower and bath. The other bathroom has a vanity and loo.

Toiletries? These are provided by the hotel chain's own Chuan Spa which is one of Auckland's best day spas. Grounded in traditional Chinese traditions, the spa offers a wide range of treatments and its facilities include a snail shower (horizontal jets as well as a rain shower), herbal steam room, sauna and an invigorating ice experience.

One of the King Rooms at the Langham. Photo / Supplied

Noise? Windows are fitted with "hush" glass for extra quiet and you'd never know you are in such a busy part of town.

Exercise facilities? As well as that lovely pool there is a well-equipped health club.

Food and drink: You're spoiled for choice here - as well as its central Palm Court restaurant the hotel is home to Eight, a collection of eight interactive kitchens serving up seafood, salads, Indian, sushi, dim sum, American-style grilled meat, desserts, and more. Diners pay a set price and you can eat as much as you like. You need a strategy here - I recommend not eating for at least three days before you go so you can try a bit of everything.

Perfect for? Treating yourself. Go on, you deserve it.

Chuan Spa at the Langham Hotel. Photo / Supplied

Would I return? When I heard that non-guests can pay for a Chuan Spa day pass to enjoy the pool and spa facilities ($35 weekdays and $50 weekends - bookings essential), I started planning my next visit immediately.

CHECKLIST

The Langham Auckland is at 83 Symonds Street, Auckland Central. Phone: (09) 379 5132.