High Tea is a tradition, ideal for celebrating special occasions, treating oneself, or simply enjoying a classy afternoon. Whether served in classic settings with fine china or as a modern twist with contemporary flavours, Auckland has a number of establishments that serve stellar high tea. Here are some of the finest places in the city for a wonderful high tea experience.
Aviary – A Most Grand High Tea Experience
71 Mayoral Drive, Auckland CBD
The Aviary (within the Grand Millennium Auckland) The Aviary serves a gorgeous high tea in an ambience complete with padded furnishings and natural lighting. Served on stands shaped like birdcages, the offerings include smoked salmon parfait, gourmet finger sandwiches, giant chicken and leek sausage rolls and delicate sweets, including canelés and honey panna cotta made from honey harvested from the hotel’s rooftop hives. Pair your treats with a pot of Harney & Sons tea or a glass of Champagne Charles Le Bel for a decadent touch.
Farm House Café – For a Rustic High Tea Getaway
400 Papakura-Clevedon Road, Clevedon
Farm House Café’s high tea is a little hidden gem in Clevedon — it has a countryside feel, and it includes bottomless scones in three flavours, house-made gelato to cleanse the palate, and a range of gourmet sweets and savouries. Guests will be able to sip premium tea or — if you’re craving a caffeine boost — a barista-made Flight coffee, with bubbles on offer as an extra treat. Open weekends, this high tea offers a friendly and cosy atmosphere and whimsical views in a scenic rural setting.
The Libraries at The Hotel Britomart — A Kiwi-Inspired High Tea
30 Customs Street East On Britomart, Auckland CBD
For a distinctly New Zealand take on afternoon tea, The Hotel Britomart has created a menu inspired by classic Kiwi flavours. Look out for treats such as smoked kahawai sandwiches, confit kumara spread on biscotti and Southland gouda cheese rolls. Dessert choices are coffee choux, house-made macarons and ginger-malt ice cream sandwiches. This special high tea is only offered on certain dates with required pre-booking.
The Heritage Hotel Palmerston North – A Six-Course High Tea Experience
99 Halsey Street, Auckland CBD
The Park Hyatt Auckland takes high tea to another level, with a five-course menu served in the hotel’s elegant Living Room. Designed by the executive pastry chef Callum Liddicoat, the menu combines sweet and savoury, changing with the seasons. Available in dietary preference options for vegetarian, gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, and vegan, this high tea is an all-inclusive-la-di-da dining experience in a beautiful waterfront setting.
Moxie – A Vintage-Inspired High Tea
82 Hinemoa Street, Birkenhead, Auckland
Held on the last Sunday of each month, Moxie’s high tea is an elegant affair served on vintage china and crystal glassware. Guests can enjoy traditional and modern takes on high tea favourites, including coronation chicken sandwiches, classic scones with jam and cream, and delicate petit fours. The selection of Harney & Sons teas, alongside optional bubbles, adds to the old-world charm of this delightful venue.
Bellini at The Hilton – A Waterfront Afternoon Tea
147 Quay Street, Auckland CBD
Located in the luxurious Bellini Bar at the Hilton, this high tea experience offers an ever-changing selection of sweet and savoury treats made with seasonal ingredients. Enjoy your tea while overlooking the Waitematā Harbour, or opt for an outdoor seat on a fine day. With a selection of T2 and Zealong loose-leaf teas and an optional glass of Bollinger Champagne, this is a truly indulgent experience.
Cordis Chandelier Lounge – A Classic High Tea with a Twist
83 Symonds Street, Grafton
Set in the opulent Chandelier Lounge, Cordis presents a refined high tea featuring truffled brie tartlets, spiced apple scones, and pumpkin St. Honoré. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring a fresh and delightful experience each visit. With a curated selection of TWG teas and the option to add a glass of Louis Roederer champagne, this high tea is both elegant and indulgent.
Sky Tea at SkyBar – A High Tea with a View
Level 50/78 Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD
For a high tea experience like no other, head to SkyBar on the 50th floor of the Sky Tower. This high tea features five savoury and five sweet treats, complemented by coffee, tea, or juice. Upgrade your experience with a glass of Moët & Chandon Champagne or a Remember Gatsby cocktail. As a bonus, Sky Tower admission is included in your booking.
JW Marriott Auckland – Tea-Infused Delicacies
22-26 Albert Street, Auckland CBD
JW Marriott’s high tea is a celebration of tea itself, with gourmet T-Series Dilmah teas infused into many of the menu items. Highlights include orange and lime tea-cured salmon, green tea macarons, and ginger tea-infused scones. Enjoy your tea with a glass of sparkling wine, a tea-inspired cocktail, or even a flute of champagne for an extra touch of elegance.
Conclusion
There are many different kinds of high tea experiences available in Auckland, ranging from traditional and refined to contemporary and creative. There is no doubt that these establishments will present you with an experience that you will never forget, regardless of whether you are in the mood for a classic afternoon tea or a twist.