WIN THE ULTIMATE LUXURY HOTEL ESCAPE
10
GREAT GIFT IDEAS
FESTI V DININGE Your guid what’s on e to until Jan 2019!
Christmas @
EXPERT ADVICE
Our best party planning tips and food inspiration
Win with Cordis
Christmas is a time of year when we want it all. We crave fun and excitement, we yearn to be indulged and pampered, we desire heartfelt time with loved ones – and we wish to enjoy all this with as little stress as possible. Which is where Cordis comes in. Few places are better equipped to deliver all you demand – and more – over the festive season.
Formerly known as The Langham, our flagship hotel in Auckland recently had a multi-million dollar refurbishment, to cement our position as one of the country’s premiere destinations. From enhanced dining experiences to the ultimate in pampering spa treatments, unrivalled event organisation to a unique kids’ programme, we deliver on every level.
BOOK & WIN
Anyone who books in with us over the Christmas period – be it for a meal, a stay, a spa experience or an event – will be in to win the ultimate Langham Hospitality Group prize.
The incredible prize package includes: ✱ One night for two at Cordis, Auckland, including lounge access and privileges. ✱ Dinner for two at Eight restaurant. ✱ An indulgent Chuan Spa massage for both guests. ✱ Return economy flights for two to your choice of Sydney or Melbourne and limousine transfers. ✱ Two nights at The Langham Sydney or The Langham Melbourne, including lounge access and privileges. ✱ Dinner at your chosen Australian Langham hotel. .
TERMS & CONDITIONS Entries to be made using entry form available at Cordis, Auckland, which must be lodged in competition box located in hotel’s main lobby from 1/10/18. Entries close 5pm, 31/12/18. Prize is not transferable and must be taken before 30/9/19. Winner will be drawn at random and notified by email. Not available for blackout periods. For full terms and conditions see entry form and online at cordishotels.com/Auckland.
TO BOOK AND BE IN TO WIN OUR INCREDIBLE PRIZE, CALL 09 379 5132 OR GO TO CORDISHOTELS.COM/AUCKLAND.
YOUR DESTINATION FOR A RELAXING ESCAPE
CORDIS, AUCKLAND: THE HEART OF OUR COMMUNITY
CREATE HEARTFELT FAMILY MEMORIES
WELCOME T
his Christmas is a very special one for me personally – as well as the wider team here at Cordis, Auckland. It marks a jubilant end to a phenomenal first year operating under our new identity of Cordis, and an opportunity to share that celebratory spirit with you. Over the past 12 months we have delighted in forging heartfelt connections with both our guests and the community at large, and at this time of year we want to strengthen that bond, spreading the goodwill to all. You’ll see over the following pages just how special Christmas at Cordis is going to be; we can’t wait to make it your most memorable – and stress-free – yet. Whether you choose to give us the honour of hosting your family for a festive meal, ask us to organise your end-of-year event, decide to escape the chaos and find balance in our spa, or bring the kids to us for a relaxing getaway, we’ll devote ourselves to ensuring it’s an occasion to remember. Cordis, Auckland is not just a hotel, it’s a part of the community, one which we want to include in our celebrations. I am proud of our on-going relationships with the likes of Ronald McDonald House, Make-A-Wish, Shine, and Auckland Zoo, and our passion for these causes will only grow over the coming year. I’d like to extend my thanks to you for your support of Cordis, Auckland. You, our guests, are what makes what we do so rewarding, and we can’t wait to show you our appreciation personally when you come and see us over the coming months. Wishing you and your family a memorable and happy Christmas,
FRANZ MASCARENHAS, MANAGING DIRECTOR, CORDIS, AUCKLAND
ON THE PULSE
Updating you on news, reviews and events at Cordis, Auckland. HEARTFELT MOMENTS November marks a year since we became known as Cordis; still part of the Langham Hospitality Group, but with a refreshed identity. To mark our first birthday we caught up with some of the guests who have stayed with us, and their feedback proves that our name – which means ‘heart’ in Latin – couldn’t be more apt, as they certainly felt the love after experiencing Cordis hospitality. As Kiwi foodie Sophie Gray explains, “Cordis provides such a comprehensive range of offerings, I found I had no reason to leave!” Media personality Shelley Ferguson feels a similar way, and after bringing her husband and kids to spend time with us, enthuses, “Some hotels are all about ‘me’ time, but this was ‘our’ time, as a family.” Businessman Steve Dimakis was impressed by everything from our complimentary smartphones and guest e-bikes to our shuttle service. “Having access to facilities like those, that allow my mind to clear even while I’m focussing on my work, is fantastic,” he says. Meanwhile, broadcaster-turnedprofessional traveller Brook Sabin likened his experience in our Club Lounge to, “finding the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow”. We couldn’t put it better ourselves!
Sophie Gray (top) loves the food at Eight, while Steve Dimakis (right) is impressed by our corporate facilities. Shelley Ferguson (left) feels Cordis is a great destination for families.
Winning luxury We were delighted Chuan Spa was named the leading luxury hotel spa in Australia and Oceania at the glittering 2018 World Luxury Spa Awards. Franz Mascarenhas, managing director of Cordis, Auckland, describes the win as, “a remarkable achievement for the team and a great honour for Cordis, Auckland”. “We are immensely proud of the team at Chuan Spa and the superior service and dedication they have shown to all their customers,”
he adds. Offering a range of treatments, Chuan Spa gives guests a serene sanctuary where they can be pampered and restore balance. Find out more at chuanspa.co.nz.
TO MARK OUR FIRST BIRTHDAY WE CAUGHT UP WITH GUESTS OUR NAME – WHICH MEANS ‘HEART’ IN LATIN – COULDN’T
TAKING TEA TO NEW HEIGHTS
High tea has rapidly become a culinary phenomenon, and no-one does it quite like Cordis, Auckland. The exquisite delights we serve guests in the elegant surroundings of our Lobby Lounge have long been unrivalled – and we have now taken High Tea by Cordis to a whole new level. From our magical themed options to vegan-friendly treats, we make high tea an inclusive, memorable event for all. DISNEY DELIGHT
The magic of Disney arrives at Cordis from September 14, with the launch of our series of themed high teas. This is the first time the entertainment giant has collaborated with a hotel in New Zealand, and big kids and small will love tucking into mini desserts inspired by Pooh Bear, and bite-sized morsels that channel the magnificent Mary Poppins. The dates to remember are: l Sept 14 – Oct 14: Disney’s Christopher Robin High Tea by Cordis. l Nov 16 – Dec 16: Disney’s The Nutcracker and the Four Realms High Tea by Cordis. l Dec 28 – Jan 31: Disney’s Mary Poppins Returns High Tea by Cordis.
The first 100 bookings for each Disney tea get a ticket to the VIP movie preview. Prices start from $38 per child and $59 per adult.
CODY’S CHARM
Our Cody High Teas, inspired by our loveable red panda mascot, have been hugely popular. The bespoke menu includes treats such as the ‘Hear Me Roar’ cupcake and a ‘Happy Bear’ sandwich. Available Friday to Sunday, year round, prices start from $38, and every child who has a Cody High Tea gets to take home their own cuddly Cody bear.
gluten-free options. Prices start from $59 per adult.
PONY FAN ALERT!
We’ve partnered with Hasbro to hold two My Little Pony Pop-Up High Tea Parties to mark the 35th anniversary of the loveable characters. Held on October 28 at 11am and 2pm, each will feature a delicious tea, life-sized characters, face painting and craft, plus every child takes home a My Little Pony toy. Tickets from $49, book at mlphightea.eventbee.com.
VOTE VEGAN
Those who abstain from animal produce won’t miss out on high tea, thanks to the launch of our vegan menu. It features delicacies such as a Curried black-eye pea salad sandwich and Chocolate hazelnut eggless cake. Available with just 24 hours’ notice, we can also serve
FOR MORE DETAILS ON HIGH TEAS AND TO BOOK, CALL 09 300 2924.
WHO HAVE STAYED WITH US, AND THEIR FEEDBACK PROVED BE MORE APT; THEY CERTAINLY FELT THE LOVE.
JANELLE HIMMEL
Guided by ANGELS
“Use fun ways to get guests engaged, whether that’s by creating a light-hearted team building activity, adding a cultural element with a kapa haka performance, or installing an edible doughnut chandelier. The opportunities are endless.”
‘Bring the fun to life’
Our events team, the Cordis Angels, will ensure your special occasion is heavenly. They share their secrets to creating the perfect gathering.
O
rganising an event can be a daunting task, especially at a time of year when social gatherings are at their peak. From worrying about numbers and fretting about how you’ll cater for gluten-free guests, to working out how to stop your great uncle guzzling all the wine, it can be enough to put anyone into hibernation for the festive season. Which is why it can be such a relief to hand over all that stress, organisation – and sleepless nights over the seating plan – to people who not only know what they’re doing, but love doing it. And once you’ve met our Cordis Angels, you won’t want your event handled by anyone else. These seven women are dedicated experts in the partyplanning process, taking inspiration from international trends and working closely with innovative industry professionals to create some of the country’s most unique events. They can ensure that whether you are looking for a modest party to enjoy with family in September, a stylish cocktail soirée for friends in December or a grand banquet to entertain hundreds of colleagues
in the New Year, it will be an impeccably organised and memorable get-together. And the best part is, our Angels will take care of all the hard work – your only job is to take the credit! As Marion Bausse, who heads up the Cordis Angels team, explains, “We can do everything, delivering exactly what you want and taking care of every detail.” And this is not just about creating showstopping events with all the bells and whistles. An 80th birthday get-together for 10 relatives can be just as overwhelming to organise as a wedding for 100 guests, but our Angels will happily take care of big and small, flamboyant and intimate – their focus is simply on delivering heartfelt, seamless occasions that you’ll love. “What makes our events different is that we create experiences from the minute the guests walk into the room,” Marion says, adding that Cordis boasts 13 different event spaces for you to choose from. “Every one of our Cordis Angels brings their own skills into the planning and organisation to ensure it’s perfect for you.”
‘Connect’ AIA JAWAD
“Personal connection is of great importance; sit down and connect from the heart to deliver a bespoke event experience. Consider how your guests will connect with the event, and ask yourself, what will make it memorable for them?”
TO CONNECT WITH OUR CORDIS ANGELS CALL 09 300 2901 OR EMAIL CDAKL.EVENTS@CORDISHOTELS.COM.
HANNAH LOFROTH
“Heartfelt appreciation for an event creates shared excitement, so identify what’s important and go above and beyond. If the priority is for guests to have fun, focus on interactive activities; if it’s all about the food, work with the chef to deliver a tailored menu.”
‘Be heartfelt’
CASSIE HAMILTON
“To ensure a stress-free event, planning is everything. You need fuss-free, seamless plans that cover every little detail, from the timing to the way guests are served their meals. These plans should then be shared with everyone involved; one team, one dream!”
‘Aim for seamless’ ‘Focus on detail’
KRISTINE RAMOS
“Little things make big things happen, the key is attention to detail, so make sure everyone is briefed on what is expected. Personalisation is important, as is great service and the general ambience.”
‘Be thoughtful’ SAMANTHA FRIAR
‘Innovate’
MARION BAUSSE
“Don’t be afraid to innovate, it’s the key to organising memorable events. If you chose a sit-down dinner last year, this time do something different, perhaps with a cocktail function. The trend at the moment is for interactive experiences, whether that’s having a chef present at a food station, or encouraging guests to make their own smoothies.”
“Go above and beyond providing the essentials, think of the extra things you can do to keep the memories of the event alive. Get creative with thoughtful touches, such as branded chocolates, photo booths, umbrellas for guests when they leave – or creating a hashtag on social media for photo sharing.”
Season’s eatings Give your Christmas a fabulous flavour by letting Cordis handle the cooking, leaving you to enjoy heartfelt time with loved ones.
T
here’s little doubt the star of most festive celebrations is the food. Whether it’s a long lunch of perfectly glazed ham followed by rich fruit pudding, afternoon tea with turkey sandwiches and moreish mince pies, or cocktails with smoked salmon canapés and mini berry tarts, the taste of Christmas lingers long after the last gift is opened. But for many of us, the season of over-indulgence brings with it an awful lot of work. From queuing for hours at the supermarket then slaving all day over a hot stove, to spending whole evenings up to your elbows in washing up, it’s a recipe for a less-than-merry Christmas. The solution? Come and join us at Cordis where we have all the ingredients for a celebration that is not only memorable, it’s hassle free. As executive chef Volker Marecek explains, “At Christmas people want to relax and catch up with family and friends, without the pressure of cooking and cleaning up afterwards. We combine that heartfelt engagement with a five-star experience, which is why so many people come here year after year, always leaving with big smiles.” Book in at Eight for a restaurant meal that combines tradition with trends, where standout delights include Christmas sushi with smoked turkey breast, brie and camembert; and a twist on the chocolate log using cookies, cream and chocolate ganache. Or work with our expert team to create the perfect menu for your end-of-year event, whether that involves an Asian-inspired banquet or a series of sensational seafood canapés. Maybe you prefer the laidback luxury of high tea, in which case our delights include vegan and child-friendly options. Life is busy enough at this time of year, so let Cordis do the hard work, so you can focus on what counts – enjoying the festive season with loved ones.
On the menu
Some of the treats in store for festive diners include the strawberry white Christmas wreath (top); venison with mushroom, pickles and beetroot (above, right); and Christmas sushi (below).
‘AT CHRISTMAS PEOPLE WANT TO RELAX AND CATCH UP OF COOKING. WE COMBINE THAT HEARTFELT
Meet the chef: Volker Marecek As he prepares for his ninth Christmas season at our hotel, our celebrated executive chef shares his insights into the perfect festive feast.
How do you balance tradition with innovation? Usually guests want the core items of ham, turkey, oysters and Christmas pudding, so we keep those, but we’re always innovating. For example, we might use the flavours of Christmas – cinnamon, orange and cloves – in marination. And in the sweets we always try to think outside
Seafood feast
Oysters are one of our most popular items at Eight – we sold almost 200,000 in the eight months to June 2018, and expect high demand this Christmas.
the box, creating dishes which surprise and delight – such as chocolate pasta! Can you share the secret to the perfect ham? People
often do it too fast; it needs to be cooked inside, and crunchy and caramelised outside. We cook ours over six hours, starting at 110°C and increasing to 180°C. How have festive culinary trends changed in the past decade? People still want ham and turkey, but they are more health conscious now, and
dietary requirements have increased. We happily cater for these, using gluten- and dairy-free products, always at a five-star standard. How important is provenance in your food? Very – most is sourced from around New Zealand and about 75% of our produce is sustainable. We buy from sustainable fisheries where catch is harvested using the groundbreaking Tiaki method. It’s nice to go with smaller farmers; I even have a supplier who forages for us.
THE SEA SON AT EIGHT Prepare to party
From Nov 15 – Dec 23 it’s all about Christmas, with no detail spared, from the ham and turkey to the hats and crackers. Lunch from $65, kids under 12 half price!
Mark the big days
For the ultimate festive experience at Eight, bring the whole family to celebrate those key dates. But book in quickly, places are selling out fast! Christmas Eve Lunch $99; dinner $179. Christmas Day Lunch $289; dinner $289. Dec 30 Lunch $75; dinner $129. New Year’s Eve Lunch $75; dinner $159.
Eat and stay
If you don’t want the fun to end when the last plate is cleared, turn your festive feast into a Christmas getaway by staying over! The Heartfelt Eight Escape includes a night’s stay, dinner and breakfast, use of Chuan Spa, valet parking, and even a bottle of bubbles to channel that celebratory feeling. Priced from $580.
WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS – WITHOUT THE PRESSURE ENGAGEMENT WITH A FIVE-STAR EXPERIENCE.’
For the relative you love: DINING GIFT CARD Who doesn’t love an evening being cooked for by some of New Zealand’s top chefs? Avoid the challenge of deciding which cuisine your giftee will enjoy the most, by treating them to a night at Eight, which boasts dishes for every desire. Priced from $196 for two.
THE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS
If you’re struggling for Christmas gift inspiration, look no further than our hot list of the 10 best objects to desire and experiences to dream of.
For the person who has it all: SPARKLING MINT ROOM ATOMISER A unisex gift that is perfect for those who are hard to buy for, this beautifully presented atomiser delivers a wonderful fragrance of sweet orange, grapefruit and lemon, spreading the essence of freshness and summertime. $35.
For mum and dad: THE WELLBEING CHUAN JOURNEY
For families: HEARTFELT FAMILY FUN
Show your parents the love with a pampering escape from which they’ll never want to return. Not only will they be indulged with a Harmony or Balancing massage each, they’ll also enjoy use of Chuan Spa’s heated rooftop pool, jacuzzi, herbal steam room and sauna, before relaxing into a night’s stay in a Junior suite. This package comes complete with butler service, evening cocktails and canapés, and breakfast. Priced from $650.
Whether for your own family or one you like to spoil at Christmas, this gift will delight all. Youngsters will love the Cordis Kids’ Programme while mum and dad relax into a luxury night away. Priced from $249.
For your neighbour: SPARKLING MINT CANDLE For the kids: CODY RED PANDA Our mascot Cody is quickly becoming a legend at Cordis, and few kids could resist their own cuddly version to cherish. The loveable bear also educates youngsters in the plight of the red panda, an endangered animal Cordis is committed to protecting. $40.
For couples you care about: THE EIGHT ESCAPE Whether it’s your brother and sister-in-law or your nana and grandad, if you’re looking for a gift for two special people, this ticks all the boxes. They won’t need to lift a finger, as from the minute their car is valet parked, food, drink and accommodation will be taken care of. Not only will they feast on both dinner and breakfast in Eight restaurant, the package includes a bottle of sparkling wine to enjoy in their Superior or Deluxe room. Priced from $580.
Saying it with flowers is overrated; at this time of year a gorgeously scented candle does it all. This one has a delicious aroma of sweet orange, grapefruit and lemon that was designed exclusively for Cordis by Master Perfumers Christophe Laudamiel and Christoph Hornetz. $45.
For a close friend: POUNAMU SPA RITUAL Your best friend deserves the best – and that’s what you’ll deliver with two hours of blissful pampering. It includes a full body herbal salt exfoliation, a mud wrap, use of pounamo stones, a massage and a mini facial. Priced from $300.
For a client: SPA VOUCHER For an easy and delightful gift idea, it’s hard to look beyond a gift card for Chuan Spa. Our award-winning holistic retreat offers a range of treatments which take guests on a journey to restore mind, body and soul. Treatments priced from $155.
For your loved one: THE A-LISTER LUXURY Indulge your dearest with the complete VIP experience. From the luxury of limousine transfers, to the opulence of a night in a Chairman’s or Presidential Suite, and the intimacy of a private gourmet dinner for two, this is a present that will leave your loved one in no doubt of your affection. Plus it’s the gift that keeps giving, as afterwards we can deliver a slice of hotel comfort to your home, in the form of one of our ultra-comfortable super king beds and sumptuous matching linen, so you can enjoy Cordis luxury long after you check out. Presidential Suite, room only from $1689, extra items additional.
TO FIND OUT MORE OR PURCHASE ANY OF THESE GIFTS, CALL 09 379 5132 OR GO TO CORDISHOTELS.COM/AUCKLAND.
Make a date
Don't miss a thing on the biggest month of the year with our handy guide...
1
saturday
First day ofr summe
2
December 2018 sunday
Confirm your plans for Christmas Day – we can help!
3
monday
Is your end-of-year work party sorted? Call our events team.
9
4
5
tuesday
wednesday
It's Lobster Wednesday at Eight!
Remember orange is the new pink at Cordis!
6
thursday
Feel the magic at our Disney's Nutcracker and the Four Realms High Tea by Cordis.
10 11Join us for Christmas Have a leisurely Meet Eight's et the girls room service G in the park Chocoholic for Friday drinks breakfast. Tuesday. your in our Lobby Lounge. tree 17Feeling 13 16 15 12 14 7
8
friday
saturday
sunday
monday
tuesday
Bring the kids and stay the night – you can walk to the venue.
wednesday
Drop into the Cordis shop for some great gift ideas.
18
send your Christmas Cards
tuesday
Shania Twain plays at Spark Arena – going? Why not stay with us?
23
sunday
Last Sunday before Christmas
friday
thursday
24
19
End of term
...for many schools – don’t forget.
Celebrate Christmas Eve at Eight.
25
20
SHOPPING DAYS TO GO!
thursday
Too busy to cook? Come to Eight for Smoky Thursday!
tuesday
as Christm
day
Let us take care of you.
29
saturday
Celebrate the season with a night in our Presidential Suite.
30
26
21
Book in for a Christmas High Tea by Cordis in the Lobby Lounge.
Almost there – chill out with a cocktail in our Lobby Lounge. wednesday
BOXING DAY
Toast the year that was with bubbles in the Lobby Lounge.
22
friday
27
Forget the sales! Spend it with Cordis.
sunday
monday
sunday
TEN
Feed the joy with a festive lunch at Eight.
wednesday
monday
saturday
monday
saturday
Forgotten a gift? Check out our options.
thursday
It’s holiday time – get beach-ready at our spa.
31 new year's eve Party with us.
flustered? Come for a massage at our spa.
28
friday
Come to Disney’s Mary Poppins Returns High Tea by Cordis.