I fondly recall that standard rooms at the former Sheraton could be had for NZD 90 or less at quiet times. I do like what they've done with the place after the Langham rebrand though, and the consistency of service is much better.

Anyhoo, I redeemed points for a couple of nights at the Westin last weekend, and I'm sure I'll be back.

The building exterior is understated, and blends easily into its surroundings of trendy corporate digs and overpriced apartments. Nothing screams "flash hotel," which is probably a darn good thing. It's nice to have the option of decent accommodation that isn't buzzing with tour groups and/or "beautiful people" (Langham! Sky City!)

My arrival was met with a friendly and efficient welcome at the entrance. Car & bags were duly whisked away, and I was directed to the front desk.

As a Gold, I received a room on the 4th floor, which I was told is the highest floor with standard rooms. I was prepared to be unimpressed, but was very pleasantly surprised. As has already been mentioned, the standard rooms could pass for junior suites in some space-challenged hotels, and they are very attractively appointed. Mine did overlook a construction area, but earplugs are among the traveller's best friends

The room featured a tiny balcony, which is ok for catching a breath of sea air, but useless for much else, including smoking (balconies are included in the smokefree area, and a $200 cleaning fee applies if one is busted.) Thankfully, I don't.

I must say it is nice to find a property where widescreen TVs are not rationed to the better rooms. At one point, the remote did decide to "hang" & would not turn off its red light, so it needed the batteries pulled. Luckily I travel with a screwdriver, since the battery compartment was screwed shut That was about the only technical glitch that I encountered, but honourable mention is awarded to the battery powered alarm clocks. They are not the least bit intuitive, and do not appear capable of radio wake-up, hence they have to go (which they probably will, into the suitcases of not-so-upstanding guests!)

I mentioned to several staff that the water features are already things of Internet legend, and they seemed most interested. Apparently at least one baby in its stroller has already been pushed into one of them

Dinner service in the restaurant was just great! The young team are very enthusiastic without being overbearing, and made me feel right at home. I do not tip in NZ as a matter of course, but didn't hesitate to on Sunday night.

After dinner, I retired to the bar for a "fortified" coffee. A little bowl of warm nuts was presented with this. Better and better!

The continental breakfast buffet is moderately priced for an upscale Auckland hotel, but somewhat sparse. No trim milk for cereal! On the other hand, the waiter anticipated that my untouched cappuccino might be cold by the time I had finished my juice, and replaced it at no charge. Now that's attentiveness! Hot breakfast options are available a la carte, but I didn't peruse the menu, as I am trying to lose weight

The health club is still under construction, but I was too busy playing poker at Sky City anyway

I did strike a billing issue. I was charged around $80 for each of my free nights! I thought I'd turn this to my advantage, and offered to pay the charge in return for stay credit. So far, the points from the stay have posted, but the credit has not I have raised this with the hotel, so we'll see what happens.

All in all, a worthy addition to the Starwood stable. I might just have found a new hangout

justakiwi