NZ124 MEL - AKL
Flight NZ124 Melbourne to Auckland reveals why sometimes the best travel experiences come from unexpected opportunities. We discovered that an airline's reputation for excellence extends even to their most exclusive cabin offerings with a serendipitous upgrade. The Air New Zealand flight —completed in a remarkably swift three hours and three minutes at an average ground speed of 1,006 kilometres per hour—provided an unexpected opportunity to experience first-class luxury on what many consider a routine trans-Tasman hop.
Settling into seat 2D revealed an extraordinary stroke of fortune: a genuine first-class suite aboard what appeared to be a leased Boeing 777-300ER from Cathay Pacific. This aircraft retains six first-class suites that Air New Zealand offers for a cost just shy of $200 NZD to upgrade on the Melbourne-Auckland route—arguably one of aviation's greatest bargains for premium cabin access.
The contrast with Air New Zealand's standard business class herringbone configuration proved immediately apparent. These suites represent luxury travel at its finest, offering space and privacy that transforms even short flights into indulgent experiences. Whilst the three-hour duration precluded full appreciation of the sleeping arrangements, the visible quality suggested that long-haul journeys in such accommodation would prove genuinely restorative. One can only imagine the premium commanded on intercontinental routes—and wonder whether it might prove worthwhile.
The entertainment system, however, revealed familiar limitations. Perhaps through over-exposure to Air New Zealand's offerings this year, the programming appeared increasingly skewed toward younger demographics, with sparse content for more mature passengers. The airline would benefit from refreshing their selection with material that appeals to their full passenger spectrum, particularly given the sophisticated travellers who typically occupy premium cabins.
The beverage programme maintained Air New Zealand's consistently high standards. The wine selection showcased New Zealand's viticultural excellence, with Sacred Hill Pinot Noir exemplifying the quality available at altitude. The comprehensive spirits selection, premium juices, and expertly prepared tea and coffee completed an offering that rivals any international carrier's first-class service.
The meal service exceeded expectations for a flight of this duration. The hot-smoked salmon and potato salad with tonnato dressing, green beans, and caper berries provided a sophisticated appetiser that demonstrated genuine culinary ambition. The slow-cooked New Zealand lamb with spiced citrus lentils, red wine-braised red cabbage, and herbed crème fraîche represented main course excellence that many restaurants would struggle to match. Feeling appropriately satisfied, the cheese board provided a more suitable conclusion than dessert—sometimes restraint enhances rather than diminishes the dining experience.
Punctuality remained exemplary. Departing Melbourne's gate at precisely 12:05 as scheduled and arriving in Auckland ten minutes early demonstrates the operational excellence that frequent Air New Zealand passengers have come to expect as standard rather than exception.
The Melbourne lounge experience proved somewhat peculiar. Whilst the facility itself maintains Air New Zealand's typically high standards with all expected amenities, its location feels distinctly subterranean. Descending two escalator levels past competing airline lounges creates an unfortunate impression of relegation to basement quarters, despite actually occupying ground level. The psychological impact of this descent cannot be underestimated—first impressions matter considerably in premium travel.
The cabin service throughout maintained Air New Zealand's reputation for genuine hospitality. From boarding through disembarkation, the crew delivered the kind of attentive, personalised service that distinguishes exceptional airlines from merely competent ones. Their professionalism and warmth transform routine flights into memorable experiences.
The Seasoned Traveller's Verdict:
This flight exemplified why Air New Zealand continues earning international recognition for service excellence. The unexpected first-class experience, available for such modest supplementation, represents extraordinary value for discerning travellers seeking genuine luxury without long-haul commitment.
The leased Cathay Pacific aircraft's retention of first-class suites creates unique opportunities for passengers willing to monitor aircraft assignments. For $160 NZD, experiencing this level of comfort and service represents one of aviation's most accessible premium upgrades.
For fellow seasoned travellers, this route demonstrates that sometimes the most rewarding experiences emerge from routine journeys when airlines exceed expectations. Air New Zealand's commitment to maintaining service standards across all cabin classes, combined with occasional equipment surprises like first-class availability, reinforces their position as the Pacific's premier carrier.
The entertainment system's limitations aside, this flight reminded me why Air New Zealand remains a preferred choice for regional travel. When an airline can transform a standard trans-Tasman flight into a genuinely luxurious experience for minimal additional cost, they've earned both loyalty and recommendation.
