Historic Langham Afternoon Tea sells out in Record 15 minutes

This week, Tuesday’s afternoon tea sold out at The Langham Auckland in a record 15 minutes after the property turned back the clock and sold the delicacy at Victorian prices.

On the same day in 1865, The Langham in London became one of the very first grand hotels to ever serve afternoon tea. This was prior to the existence of other popular afternoon tea establishments such as The Ritz and Savoy.

In celebration, for one day only, Langham properties worldwide offered the signature delicacy to their guests at the same price it was originally served in 1865; one shilling six pence.

For New Zealanders, one shilling six pence equates to NZ.18c per person. Getting into the spirit of the day, one particularly enthusiastic guest turned up with antique coins amounting to one shilling six pence.

Among the 90 guests taking part in the traditional English custom were Kiwi icons including fashionistas Karen Walker and Denise L’Estrange-Corbett, musicians Peter Urlich and Hollie Smith, and Shortland Street stars Alison Quigan and Anna Jullienne.

 The Langham Auckland afternoon tea consists of petite scones, smoked salmon pinwheels, tomato, cucumber and egg sandwiches, chocolate-coated tuxedo-dressed strawberries, fresh fruit tartlets, lamingtons, English fruit cake, and spice cake accompanied by crème fraiche, strawberry preserve, butter, and of course, tea and coffee.

Executive chef Ofir Yudilevich says he sees people of every age and background taking part in the custom: “It’s as popular as ever for mothers and daughters but I’ve noticed a lot of young people and hen’s parties coming in for afternoon tea as well.”

For those who missed out on Tuesday's special event, The Langham’s signature afternoon tea is available daily from 12.00 noon – 4.30 pm and is NZ$28 per person.

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