Thanks for the answers. I'm glad the soft landing still exists, that has pretty much made my mind up for me re going for Golde Elite now.

Re the partner q - the reason I ask is that there is a woman at work who has a partner card that came from her Mum - which made me think that maybe as long as you have the same airpoints address Air NZ doesn't question what a "partner" is?

I guess it could be worth a shot... as long as up front about the request there can't be any issues - ie if they say no, I just accept it & let it go.

I'm sure this issue could open a can of worms in terms of the legal definition of "partner", but really it is up to NZ as to their interpretation I suppose.

After I qualify later this year I will report back on my findings...