Air New Zealand Air Points - Best/Worst lounges on NZ network

Mad_Atta has suggested we do the Utlimate Lounge thread.

So....come on....tell us the best and the worst. Which lounge has the best/worst food, nicest/rudest staff, grea/worst views, etc

I await!!!!!

Probably a good idea to start off with some useful links on the NZ website.

So click HERE (http://www.airnz.co.nz/travelinfo/koruclub/loungedirectory/international_lounges.htm) for a list of the available facilities at the international destinations. (Just hold your mouse over the appropriate city name)

Or click HERE (http://www.airnz.co.nz/travelinfo/koruclub/loungedirectory/default.htm) for the domestic lounges.

And HERE (http://www.airnz.co.nz/travelinfo/attheairport/internationallounges/default.htm) you can find airport maps showing the location of the lounges.

Let me get the ball rolling!!!

Best

SYD I would have to say. It's a nicely appointed lounge with a very contemporary feel about it. Lots of natural light. Love the views of the tarmac and gates. I could sit in this lounge for hours on end.

Average

AKL International. This lounge needs a 'fashion makeover'. It is looking
decidely gloomy - especially the inner lounge area - some brighter cours would do nicely. What I do like about this lounge is the great views of the gates, tarmac and runway.

Worst

LAX One word - Unspeakble

SYD is by far the best and I think it's been mentioned a few times and come very high on SkyTraxx awards, AKL is still quite good, LAX I feel is still great, the worst has got to be HNL! It is dated, super crowded (read - you need to stand up), the food selection is mediocre, but the staff there are great (as always with NZ staff).

Best:

Sydney (as everyoneseems to agree) - great food and wine selection, fantastic views, lots of space, internet, kids room, just super.

Honorable mention:

Nadi, Rarotonga and Papeete - love all three, good drinks and sandwiches (Nadi lags behind here, as the sandwiches only seem to come out for some flights, eg not for NAN-LAX) and great atmosphere.

Worst:

Well, LAX isn't great, but I don't find it terrible (drinks are good at least). What it needs is more space, more showers and definately some sandwiches and better snacks. Why, when Sydney has cake, cold cuts, sandwiches, salads and cheeses, LAX only gets Tasty Lees Pack-o Snacks? Surely you don't need a lounge upgrade to offer some sandwiches. But I'd say the worst lounge is the Red Carpet Club shared in London. Pretty terrible, good thing there are plently of other choices if you have *G (or a J/F boarding pass).

I also agree that the AKL lounge needs an upgrade. Also, the sandwiches aren't as nice as they used to be.

Why do I care so much about sandwiches? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif

Cheers, Zac

What about domestic?

AKL and WLG both very good. WLG wins out for me due to not being so crowded, and the area around the corner especially - perhaps shouldnt have admitted that http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/eek.gif

NSN very small and basic.

I thought WLG was great, the food spread was also quite OK, they had sushi there in the afternoons. There is also a great view of the surrounds from both sides.

I'm not so critical of AKL, the food selection isn't as good as SYD, but they do have a couple of terminals with high speed internet, lots of different seating arrangements and a larger area which opens up if it gets too busy and superb shower facilities (with joico shampoos, etc) which are a god send after a LAX-AKL and a connection through to SYD.

I agree with LAX, it is just fine though v.small, it has all the amenities you need, shower, toilets in the lounge, 2 high speed internet PCs, relatively modern inside (certainly not worn), just the food selection is somewhat lacking (but it's just as bad at the NW & AC lounges next door).

Best domestic NZ lounge: WLG

Nice features: The WLG domestic lounge is large, comfortable, clean, usually uncrowded, has great views, a good selection of current NZ newspapers and decent drinks and munchies. If you happen to be there at the right time (5 pm?) for the afternoon to evening snack swap you can munch from both selections.

Special features: the business center has a large board with heaps of various types of cell phone charger adapters mounted on it for those who forgot to bring theirs along.

Lounge drawbacks: You have to go to WLG to enjoy it http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif


Best international NZ operated lounge: The SYD first Class lounge.

Nice features: Uncrowded, usually quiet, comfortable recliners, plenty of shower rooms.

Drawbacks: The lounge overlooks a couple fairly boring gate positions usually occupied by non Air NZ aircraft. The business lounge next door offers better viewing for those who like to watch airport operations.

Needs improvement:

1) Over the past few years the SYD FC lounge shower granite style shower floors have gotten progressively more grotty on average.

2) The SYD FC showers usually aren't stocked with packages of towels like the AKL FC shower room (what's so hard about doing so?)

3) The single PC in the SYD First Class lounge is often missing or not working. It happened to be there and up when I passed through last Friday, however net access was painfully slow. Worse, it had some brain dead "Net Nanny" software installed on it which decided to block some usueful and completely safe sites at random. Furthermore telnet was disabled so some people will find the PC useless for checking mail.

Special features: One of the TVs in the lounge is usually tuned to a special monitor screen listing the status of the all international ops at SYD. The screen lists flight number, aircraft registration, gates, various times, statuses and even pax loads.

Weird feature: Air NZ no longer has First Class service out of SYD. I've been through the lounge several times over the last few years, but now it's been when flying UA or TG.


Worst Air NZ operated international lounge: LAX

Drawbacks: The LAX lounge is often too overcrowded and noisy. No "proper" First Class lounge. The service staff seem ok but the front desk staff often seem clueless. A couple times pax have been asked to leave the lounge and go to the gate before the last flight of the evening is ready because the staff seem to want to go home. The ratio of bodies to available chair, shower, newspaper or whatever is embarassing.

Other lounges ...

AKL International First Class: Not as nice or as comfortable as the SYD FC lounge. This lounge could use some recliners like SYD has.


WLG International: The WLG NZ international lounge is small, but nice and reasonably comfortable. It shares the award for weird decoration with its stuffed birds on orange pipes theme.


Finally there's one thing that needs improvement in most every NZ operated lounge as well as onboard in business and first class ... That's right, you guessed it, it's the cheese http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

I swear for the last 4 or so years on every flight in NZ First and Business and in most every NZ lounge I've been faced with the same four cheeses: the same good, but not great blue style cheese, an ok cheddar and gouda style cheese and a really marginal brie. It's time for a change!


[This message has been edited by Quokka (edited Jan 11, 2004).]

Rudest staff - has to be AKL International - ever try changing flights if delayed, asking for better seat etc

Best staff - home port of MEL, but the lounge needs an update and gets a bit crowded - there is NO computer and I think only 3 phone plugs for laptop plug-ins. CHC international also gets a bit crowded and the coffee machine is closed for cleaning seemingly all day, every day...anyone ever used it?

Hi all

I have to put in a plug for the Hamilton lounge.

Its small, dark and limited but I think the world of it, lol.

Dave

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by CorporateFlyer:
CHC international also gets a bit crowded and the coffee machine is closed for cleaning seemingly all day, every day...anyone ever used it?</font>

I've only been to CHC Int'l lounge once, which was a couple of weeks ago, and the coffee machine was operational then! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Quokka:
I swear for the last 4 or so years on every flight in NZ First and Business and in most every NZ lounge I've been faced with the same four cheeses: the same good, but not great blue style cheese, an ok cheddar and gouda style cheese and a really marginal brie. It's time for a change!</font>

I hadn't actually thought about it, but now you mention it you're right, the cheese *is* always the same. I love the Kikorangi creamy blue cheese, but the others aren't very exciting...

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by MrSydney:
Mad_Atta has suggested we do the Utlimate Lounge thread.</font>

Indeed I did, so about time I participated. Here are my thoughts on the few NZ lounges that I have visited:

Sydney International: I'd have to agree with the consensus that this is a great lounge. Nice view over the apron and runway from the main lounge area. There's usually a great range of food and drink on offer, nice bathroom and shower facilities, loads of space (it has never seemed even remotely crowded) and a few internet-enabled PC's in the business area plus sprinkled around the lounge (great provided the ISP bills have been paid!!). Reading material is a bit lacking, but this seems to apply to all NZ lounges - do they *really* think we want to read BMW's corporate magazine??? All in all it's by far the best Star Lounge at SYD: the SQ lounge is small and dull with disappointing food choices; the UA RCC is surprisingly nice but still well outclassed, and a little bit claustrophobic due to lack of natural light. Surprisingly, this lounge also IMHO beats the QF international lounge at SYD (I can't speak for the QF First lounge) and the NZ lounge in AKL, both of which are 'home base' lounges after all. The First lounge next door is differentiated only by being MUCH smaller and quieter, with ultra-comfy black leather recliner chairs and very smart shower suites but a less interesting view. The food/drink offerings seem to be the same as next door, though some have found them more limited. Although, as Quokka pointed out, NZ has no F services from SYD any more, this lounge is also contracted to Emirates, Thai and (I think) Korean, all of whom have F service, hence the continuation of the F section.

Auckland International: A pretty nice lounge, but now outclassed by SYD. Best features besides the usual strong food/drink offerings are the great views of apron, runway and out to the Manukau Heads, plus the design with a few distinct seating areas - you can usually find a quiet spot somewhere. Very nice shower suites too. Weaknesses include only 2 internet PC's for the whole (large) lounge, and a slightly dated feel with that rather '80s corporate art' looking metal sculpture thingy. Also has probably the best range of reading material. I was interested to sample the AKL QF Club the other day, which was quite disappointing, with not much in the way of food, no views, and surprisingly little space given QF's considerable presence at AKL.

Wellington International: Quite small but nicely appointed lounge, still looking very fresh and modern. I like the layered glass lights. Most disappointing feature is the dull view over the car park - the QF Club next door has a much better view over the international apron (though the NZ domestic lounge view trumps them both). Very conveniently close to the gates... but then again, in Wellington International it couldn't really be anything else! I find WLG an extremely user-friendly airport, and this lounge is no exception.

Christchurch International: I was a little disappointed by this lounge. CHC's International terminal has been so beautifully redesigned with some very stylish public areas, so it is a surprise to discover that the tucked-away NZ lounge is actually in part of the old terminal building, with dated decor to match. It's also pretty small (I would imagine it must be very crowded when NZ's 747 and 763 international services coincide, particularly if SQ is also in at the time), which probably explains the much more limited beverages available compared to most NZ lounges - there just doesn't seem to be the fridge space. Food offerings are still respectable though, and there's a great view of the main runway and across to the GA activity on the parallel grass strip, plus the Southern Alps in the distance. The bathroom / shower area is particularly dated. The CHC QF Club puts this to shame.

Rarotonga International: I've read comments elsewhere that this lounge is a disgrace, plus glowing reviews from Zaco who regards it as a particular favourite. In such a small and simple airport as RAR I think it's pretty impressive that there's a lounge here at all - it is also small and simple, but it has all the basics you need, plus some nice fresh tropical fruit. It's also air-conditioned, unlike much of the airport, which can be a good thing or a bad thing depending on how you're feeling.

Wellington domestic Koru Lounge: A nice, airy, well-appointed lounge with a number of different seating areas, most with excellent views of runway and terminal activity. Pretty smart bathrooms, too, though the rest of the lounge is looking just a little more worn (eg the seat upholstery) than the age of the airport would lead you to expect, indicating that it probably sees some pretty heavy usage. In these days of no food on domestic NZ services, the lounge food selection is superb - on my one and only visit here food options included the usual cheese & biscuits and salty snacks, plus delicious antipasto, olives, kumara salad, marinated calimari, salami, other salad items and delicious rolls plus some sweet nibbly bits too. Most impressive of all was no fewer than http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/starsmilie.gif 13 different beers on offer http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/starsmilie.gif plus a respectable choice of wines, which (hurrah!) were not all dominated by Montana as they tend to be in the international lounges. (Don't get me wrong, Montana make some great products, but given that AirNZ sees itself as an ambassador for the NZ wine industry I think they should branch out a little more.)

Auckland domestic Koru Lounge: A pretty decent lounge with good food & alcohol range when I last visited, which was before its recent revamp. Even pre-facelift it was already by far the nicest thing in the grotty old Auckland domestic terminal. Any comments on the new look?

I'd also be curious to hear what some of the smaller domestic lounges are like, e.g. DUD and ZQN... anyone?

[edited to fix grammar]

[This message has been edited by mad_atta (edited Jan 11, 2004).]

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by airnzboy:
Probably a good idea to start off with some useful links on the NZ website.

... And HERE (http://www.airnz.co.nz/travelinfo/attheairport/internationallounges/default.htm) you can find airport maps showing the location of the lounges.</font>

These are dreadful old maps! Some of them are completely wrong now (e.g. the CHC one) and most are so badly drawn as to be not much help (e.g. the the WLG one). Time for NZ's webmaster to update them, methinks!

This friday I'll be flying HKG-AKL, with a 2 hr layover before AKL-CHC. I like the AKL int'l lounge a lot but have never been to the domestic lounge. Is the int'l lounge better than the domestic one? If so, I suppose I can use the int'l lounge instead of the domestic one, allowing for extra time to change terminals?

Also, CHC is supposed to have 'internet access'. I take that to mean PCs with internet acess, right?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by sfvoyage:
This friday I'll be flying HKG-AKL, with a 2 hr layover before AKL-CHC. I like the AKL int'l lounge a lot but have never been to the domestic lounge. Is the int'l lounge better than the domestic one? If so, I suppose I can use the int'l lounge instead of the domestic one, allowing for extra time to change terminals?</font>

Technically you probably could, but it might not be wise - partly because your luggage would still be circulating on the carousel downstairs while you were in the lounge, and partly because AKL is a bit overstretched this summer and customs & immigration processing times can be pretty slow. I've heard good things about the renovated AKL domestic lounge, so probably better to get on over there and enjoy a change of scene, especially as you'll be more relaxed without having to worry whether you've left enough time to get through processing and over to the domestic terminal. I would imagine that the international lounge staff would encourage you to do that anyway.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by sfvoyage:
Also, CHC is supposed to have 'internet access'. I take that to mean PCs with internet acess, right?</font>

Just the one PC with internet access, in the international lounge anway. Not sure about the domestic - haven't been.

I'm surprised more people haven't said anything about the Honolulu lounge! The LAX lounge is like heaven in comparison, even if you have to stand!

Managed to blank that one out of mind http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif

I was in the Auckland Intl lounge on Monday, and it seems the sandwiches are gone, replaced by a few new items. There were mini-pizzas, a pesto pasta salad, hummus and rice crackers (yumm), bread rolls, cheeses (yes, still the same), various salad bits (including nice olives), slices of turkey and salami, vegetables with dips, scones with clotted cream and some other bits I've forgotten - very nice selection. And the bar nuts kept by the spirit bottles are very nice, too. Drinks were good as always, although half of the 4 white wines on offer were Montana (and I definately agree with mad_atta that AirNZ are missing a chance to serve some much better and lesser-known wines here), but luckily there were a few bottles of Selaks Drylands Sauv Blanc tucked away at the back of the fridge. The reading material was pretty poor, no one was reading the BMW magazine (surprise surprise), and pretty much everything else available (including Time and Newsweek) was in Korean or Japanese. There's a third internet PC in a booth near the other two, in case no one has found it yet, although 3 still isn't really enough for such a large lounge. The front desk also has power adapters for laptops. I noticed there are now lounge comment cards available, too.

Cheers, Zac

[This message has been edited by Zaco (edited Jan 13, 2004).]

[This message has been edited by Kiwi Flyer (edited Jan 13, 2004).]

In one of the inflight magazines recently I remember reading that they are steadily revamping the food available in the Australian and New Zealand international lounges, now that Tasman Express with its reduced meal service has gone live. It's the same concept as they did the previous year with the domestic lounges. I like the new selection, though the clotted cream with the scones is far too sweet for my tastes - at least it was in SYD.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Zaco:
luckily there were a few bottles of Selaks Drylands Sauv Blanc tucked away at the back of the fridge.</font>

Aha! One of my old favourites. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Anyone been to the PPT lounge? I'm headed that way on vacation in March. The flight from LAX gets in at 02:30 (ugh), so I have to sit around the airport until the first Air Tahiti flight to Moorea.

Info about the refurbished Auckland domestic Koru Club:
http://www.airnz.co.nz/travelinfo/koruclub/new_auckland_koru_lounge_popup.htm

Well, the Christchurch staff gets big kudos from me. Didn't realize I left my F-class ticket to LAX, along w/ other documentation, sitting next to the i-terminal. Discovered it this morning; called ANZ hoping I had an e-ticket (I didn't), but there was a note in the record the lounge folk found/had it.

When I checked in for flight to Qtown, they reminded me lounge had it. When I got it to lounge & I walked in, they recognized me from yest & handed it over. They also said they noticed I was on domestic/intl tickets (2 sep) on Mon & to make sure I gave both so I"d be checked right through - which a) was nice; b) meant they pulled up all of my flights off my name because they were 2 tickets so how else would they have known.

ANZ gets a letter from me when I return - especially now that my heart is back in my chest over the fright of thinking I lost everything.

------------------
Sharon

Lounge at AKL Int was a calm oasis on Friday compared to the chaos downstairs. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

End of the holidays and very crowded throughout the terminal. Nice view from the lounge of all the planes being moved around the lot. Poor cousin Freedom Air drew the short straw and had to park way down by NZ domestic terminal as all the other spots at and away from the pier were full!

Do *G or NZ GE members have access to F lounges, even if flying J or Y?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by CorporateFlyer:
Do *G or NZ GE members have access to F lounges, even if flying J or Y?</font>Thankfully, no.

Unfortunately no http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

Does the lounge at LAX have a view like SYD, AKL & WLG??????

The views from the LAX lounge are pretty good actually, you can see some of the terminal 2 and terminal 3 gates (terminal 2 seems to have a couple of Northwest jets and a KLM 744 as a permanent fixture), and there's a good view out over two of the LAX runways.

Cheers, Zac

bump (extra characters here)

I tried out a new (to me) NZ lounge at the weekend, in the bustling metropolis of New Plymouth. This was my first experience of a 'regional' Koru lounge and I have to say I was quite impressed. It's not exactly large (seating for 30) but it felt spacious, with well-spaced comfy chairs, lots of natural light, big plate glass windows looking out over the apron etc. Besides us there was only 1 other pax in the lounge - ours was the only flight departing at that time, a 2/3 full mid-afternoon weekend departure, so probably mostly leisure pax. Drinks choices included jugs of juices, a couple of different wines and 2 or 3 beers - I can't actually remember if there were any spirits, but I think not. Food options were a plate of sandwiches under cling film, pre-packaged crackers and a range of Kapiti cheeses, and some pre-packaged Arnotts biscuits. Only downside was that the check-in agent didn't mention the lounge to me despite seeing my *G card, and when I asked for the security code (it is an un-staffed lounge, accessible via a code that changes each day) he rather reluctantly gave me a card with today's code written on it. At least he didn't object when I took a guest in with me (which in the regional lounges one is technically not allowed to do).

I also visited the Wellington domestic Koru Club (a.k.a. my second home) several times during the course of my slightly silly itinerary over the last few days (SYD-WLG-BHE-WLG-NPL-WLG-SYD). I'm happy to report that despite the recent 'roof tearing off' incident in the August storms, this lounge is back to its excellent self. The breakfast spread was fairly impressive, and the number of beers on offer has grown to a record fourteen!

The international lounges in SYD and WLG were same as always - SYD is excellent (some tasty new additions to the food options, such as Moroccan spice-rubbed chicken) and WLG is a bit limited. One good thing in WLG is that they had the piccolo sized bottles of Lindauer, which makes more sense - the large bottles they have in SYD are often flat, despite those caps they put on the bottles to keep the bubbles in.

As for the lounge in BHE... ;) :eek: :( :mad:

On the subject of lounges, are NRT-AKL fliers content to avail themselves of the sub-standard Yamato lounge, not operated by Air NZ, but where Air NZ customers are usually sent? Has anyone had any luck gaining access to the Club ANA lounge with an Air NZ C Class ticket?

Presuming the Club ANA lounge is the ANA J class lounge you can access it, due to Star Alliance Rules. Wonderful things aren't they.

Star Alliance - Lounge Access rules (http://www.staralliance.com/star_alliance/star/content/lounge_access.html)

I have a printout of that page and carry it with me when I'm travelling. It's proved useful on more than one occasion... ^

Glad to hear WLG koru club is back in action. The NPL regional koru club sounds very similar to the NSN one, except whenever I've been at NSN it has been much fuller. Still hardly worth stopping by for long as you can check in so late at the smaller airports.

Surely the absence of a BHE lounge makes you appreciate the WLG and SYD lounges that much more? ;)

I think the Nelson lounge is much smaller, even though NSN has around 3x the number of flights per day that NPL has. Maybe that's because NPL is more of a business destination, with the gas fields etc, while NSN is more leisure?

Re the lack of lounge at BHE, it's just the principle of it really, as it's the only airport I regularly use where I don't get lounge access! :) There's clearly no room in the terminal for them to build a lounge, and besides I'm always being seen off by family so it's not as though I'd have the time to be using the lounge. Plus, as you said, one can arrive so close to departure anyway, though they seem to be cracking down on that a little, especially if you're connecting to an international flight. (The official line is you should be there 45 minutes prior if connecting to international, which in a place like BHE is absurd.) I noticed that all my flights seemed to be starting boarding a bit earlier than before, and every single flight pushed back ahead of schedule and arrived well ahead of schedule - maybe NZ is having a real push for more ontime departures?

International Business Class

Customers who present an international Business Class boarding pass, regardless of the Star Alliance carrier they fly, have access to all members' designated business departure lounges. Guests are not permitted.

Lats year I was flying on a super saver fare WLG AKL SYD then Biz Class SYD SIN CPT. At check in at WLG the agent said i could use the Lounge but when I got to the KC Istruck a real cow and she would not let me in cos I was not flying NZ in J acros the Tasman.

Was she correct or not????????

I havent been to NPL lounge but yes NSN koru club is pretty small.

AFAIK technically yes. You are supposed to be flying biz or first on *A for next onward same day flight. Of course in situations where you have a side trip it may not be obvious that it isnt your next flight, but in your case a different city so ...

However YMMV.

Presuming the Club ANA lounge is the ANA J class lounge you can access it, due to Star Alliance Rules. Wonderful things aren't they.

Star Alliance - Lounge Access rules (http://www.staralliance.com/star_alliance/star/content/lounge_access.html)

Thanks. I thought this was the case, but have not been able to find the reference on the Star Alliance site. I am flyingto Auckland tomorrow so will be brandishing a print-out along with my boarding pass if necessary.

May I wish you a good trip mcg1000.

Thanks. I thought this was the case, but have not been able to find the reference on the Star Alliance site. I am flyingto Auckland tomorrow so will be brandishing a print-out along with my boarding pass if necessary.

I really had to lobby hard at the ANA lounge in spite of two pieces of paper (in English and Japanese) clearly stating I had the right to enter. The girls at the counter refused to budge claiming I needed Star Gold status (not true) but eventually phoned their supervisor, who seemed to know the rules, and I was admitted. Would probably go to the less comfortable JAL-operated NZ lounge next time to avoid the trouble.

I really had to lobby hard at the ANA lounge in spite of two pieces of paper (in English and Japanese) clearly stating I had the right to enter. The girls at the counter refused to budge claiming I needed Star Gold status (not true) but eventually phoned their supervisor, who seemed to know the rules, and I was admitted.

Great thing you put your foot down.

Would probably go to the less comfortable JAL-operated NZ lounge next time to avoid the trouble.

Please don't! Then this silly situation remains. (maybe that's what they're hoping for!).

Great thing you put your foot down.



Please don't! Then this silly situation remains. (maybe that's what they're hoping for!).

Maybe it's time to pressure NZ to change code-share partners in Japan thus avoiding difficulties with regards to the lounge situation and NZ fliers?

Let me get the ball rolling!!!

Best

SYD I would have to say. It's a nicely appointed lounge with a very contemporary feel about it. Lots of natural light. Love the views of the tarmac and gates. I could sit in this lounge for hours on end.

Average

AKL International. This lounge needs a 'fashion makeover'. It is looking
decidely gloomy - especially the inner lounge area - some brighter cours would do nicely. What I do like about this lounge is the great views of the gates, tarmac and runway.

Worst

LAX One word - Unspeakble



I think the best NZ lounge is Wellington International ..... and best international one is probably SYD

I think the best NZ lounge is Wellington International ..... and best international one is probably SYD

Do you mean Wellington domestic / Koru Club? That would make sense... whereas Wellington International is a bit disappointing IMHO.

I heard such praise for the WLG lounge that I have booked a 2 hour visit..err...connection on my NSN-CHC flight on January 16th :)

LAX is hidious. With RCC membership though they sent me to the NW lounge (go figure). SYD is one of the best lounges I've been in in the world. NRT - used the ANA lounge - hot, foodless though good alcohol and reasonably comfortable. AKL - decent - good food. CHC - smaller but great considering the dismal gate area.

LAX is hidious. CHC - smaller but great considering the dismal gate area.

Good news for you then - sometime next year there will be a new NZ lounge at LAX T2. After renovations of the public area's at CHC the NZ Intl. Lounge will also be renovated next year.

LAX is hidious. With RCC membership though they sent me to the NW lounge (go figure). SYD is one of the best lounges I've been in in the world. NRT - used the ANA lounge - hot, foodless though good alcohol and reasonably comfortable. AKL - decent - good food. CHC - smaller but great considering the dismal gate area.

Agree with everything you say except, AKL decent? It's got good food, a wide range of alcoholic drinks, computers with free internet access, great showers, a tv room, good reading materials, and some views over the airport and across the harbour. What more could you want? Okay, I know, free Krug... :D

NZ, at least in AKL lounge, now allows access to FT chat.

I always love the view of the tarmac and gates at AKL NZ Lounge. Will these be reduced with the new additions, separating arrivals and departures??????

The view from AKL intl lounge has been reduced since late last year. Still some view left so better than some other lounges.

Has anyone had any experiences of the RCC at LHR that NZ utilises?

Not recently. Since I found FT and see the reports of the London Lounge I use that instead.

The SQ lounge at LHR is also quite nice - while not as flashily modern as the London Lounge, it has a vastly superior selection of food and drink. I also found the London Lounge a little bit sterile.

I hate to sound ignorant but what is the London Lounge?

Is it Free?

What Terminal?

Its SK and AC *Gold lounge at LHR T3. Quite big, on two levels. Has computer terminals, showers, tv, etc. Probably much better food & drink than the RCC. See *A forum for more details.

Should be able to access if *Gold (or guest of *Gold), business/first class passenger on *A flight.

Where did the Macs go in AKL int lounge? No Macs :(

Where did the Macs go in AKL int lounge? No Macs :(

....sorry.....*burp*...

I hate to sound ignorant...

Poor MrSydney. :( We all have our crosses to bear! :p :D

Has anyone had any experiences of the RCC at LHR that NZ utilises?

Was in there in early Dec. 04. It was jam packed to the point you had to share tables. No food other than nuts and biscuits. Compared to the AC lounge (was taken in there last year as a Guest there is no comparison). Go the AC lounge everytime if you can.

Welcome to FT kiwiox14 :)

As Star Gold you can visit the AC lounge (no need to be guested in)!

As Star Gold you can visit the AC lounge (no need to be guested in)!

Ain't * Lounge rules wonderful ? http://www.staralliance.com/star_alliance/star/content/lounge_access.html

Welcome to FlyerTalk kiwiox14

Welcome to FT, kiwiox14 - with a name like that you'll fit right into the NZ board :)

Welcome to FT kiwiox14 :)

As Star Gold you can visit the AC lounge (no need to be guested in)!

Until august 04 I was earning status the hard way, down the back of the bus on Y's (NZ Company travel policy). Still 3 akl - lhr - akl's finally got me there.......Got to say after a year at the gates any lounge looks good. :)

Until august 04 I was earning status the hard way, down the back of the bus on Y's (NZ Company travel policy). Still 3 akl - lhr - akl's finally got me there.......Got to say after a year at the gates any lounge looks good. :)

Pitty you didn't find us sooner. A AKL-LHR-AKL-LHR would have picked up AC*G had it been credited to AC Aeroplan.

Tuning in from further down the foodchain here.
I've just recieved NZ Silver and a free lounge pass.

In June we're heading off to DEN via AKL & SFO and I was looking for the best place to use it. SFO? or AKL domestic homebound (4 hours between flights).

Also, being two of us, I only have the one pass. Would a KC guest card given to me get my other half in?

Actually there are three of us, but the boy's only 6 months old.


BNE lounge was nice, but a bit crowded when I went through.

Welcome to FT NSN-Dave :)

AKL domestic homebound sounds good. A chance for a shower and relax following the long flight (although lounge may be full if in peak hour).

A silver pass + KC guest pass should be enough to get you all in.

Welcome, NSN-Dave. :)

I'm not sure the free pass would even work in SFO, where NZ uses the UA lounge rather than having one of its own...? Anyway, Kiwi Flyer's advice is good. The other alternative would be the AKL lounge outbound, but you'll still be relatively fresh at that point and less in need of lounge comforts. The main domestic lounges usually have a pretty good food spread, too.

Yes good point. The Koru club pass probably would work in SFO but not the Silver pass (IIRC needs to be a NZ operated lounge).

The main domestic lounges usually have a pretty good food spread, too.

Not to mention the 12 different types of beer!!

The only risk I guess is that these Guest Card are out of date... these ones (I have 4) don't have an expiry date, but the ANZ KC site talks about using "unexpired" guest cards.

Does anyone think it's worth spending the dosh signing up for KC so that we can use the lounges on our trip?
[Aside: can KC members use partner airlines' lounges on codeshare flights ? e.g. UA operated NZ flights within the states]

Not to mention the 12 different types of beer!!

Fliar, I do wish you'd make more effort to keep up - the better lounges (i.e. WLG domestic) manage 14 or 15 on a good day!

I hereby order you to go and do some more research in the field, and report back to us regarding the exact number of beers found in each domestic koru club. :)

(Apologies if it is too obvious that mad_atta consumed rather more glasses of Marlborough sav blanc at lunchtime than might be considered strictly sensible. Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm - Main Divide '03. Yum! :p )

NSN-Dave, I was under the impression that Koru Club membership allowed you to access the designated lounge for NZ pax (whether an NZ operated lounge or otherwise) whenever travelling on a flight with an NZ flight number.

However, can I just point out that:
1) I could well be wrong; and
2) I have been drinking at lunchtime, which is always fatal, so approach anything I say with extreme caution!

The only risk I guess is that these Guest Card are out of date... these ones (I have 4) don't have an expiry date, but the ANZ KC site talks about using "unexpired" guest cards.

Are there still access passes to the Koru Club, not just members guest passes ?

NSN-Dave, I was under the impression that Koru Club membership allowed you to access the designated lounge for NZ pax (whether an NZ operated lounge or otherwise) whenever travelling on a flight with an NZ flight number.

I'll agree - The Members Guide says "At most other destinations where Air New Zealand flies to or from but does not operate its own lounge you will have access to an alternative facility."

But the guest pass says "Valid for all Air NZ International Lounges excluding SIN"

Of course NZ don't operate any lounges in Asia so make of that what you will...

I hereby order you to go and do some more research in the field, and report back to us regarding the exact number of beers found in each domestic koru club. :)

At your service! :)

NSN-Dave, I was under the impression that Koru Club membership allowed you to access the designated lounge for NZ pax (whether an NZ operated lounge or otherwise) whenever travelling on a flight with an NZ flight number.

Just checked with the KC service centre, it appears the flight has to be NZ operated, not just an NZ flight number. i.e. I couldn't use it in DEN on a UA operated NZ flight. I guess I also couldn't use it in SFO on the UA flight to DEN either (different day to the AKL-SFO flight).

Just checked with the KC service centre, it appears the flight has to be NZ operated, not just an NZ flight number. i.e. I couldn't use it in DEN on a UA operated NZ flight. I guess I also couldn't use it in SFO on the UA flight to DEN either (different day to the AKL-SFO flight).

Access is also granted to pax travelling on Singapore Airlines operated flights between New Zealand and Singapore or travelling on United Airlines operated flights between Melbourne, Sydney and Los Angeles.

Access is also granted to pax travelling on Singapore Airlines operated flights between New Zealand and Singapore or travelling on United Airlines operated flights between Melbourne, Sydney and Los Angeles.

Are you sure that is still the case? It was not anymore 2 years ago (before that yes) - maybe if codeshare?

Are you sure that is still the case? It was not anymore 2 years ago (before that yes) - maybe if codeshare?

According to this it is
https://airnz.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/airnz.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=32&p_created=998625240&p_sid=US3f9_yh&p_lva=&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPTEmcF9zb3J0X2J5PWRmbHQmcF9ncmlkc29yd D0mcF9yb3dfY250PTE1JnBfc2VhcmNoX3R5cGU9c2VhcmNoX2Z ubCZwX3Byb2RfbHZsMT00MiZwX3Byb2RfbHZsMj0mcF9wYWdlP TE*&p_li=

According to this it is
https://airnz.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/airnz.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=32&p_created=998625240&p_sid=US3f9_yh&p_lva=&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPTEmcF9zb3J0X2J5PWRmbHQmcF9ncmlkc29yd D0mcF9yb3dfY250PTE1JnBfc2VhcmNoX3R5cGU9c2VhcmNoX2Z ubCZwX3Byb2RfbHZsMT00MiZwX3Byb2RfbHZsMj0mcF9wYWdlP TE*&p_li=

:mad: Wish I would have known that before the lounge agent told me I couldn't access the KC when flying SQ...

According to this it is
https://airnz.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/airnz.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=32&p_created=998625240&p_sid=US3f9_yh&p_lva=&p_sp=cF9zcmNoPTEmcF9zb3J0X2J5PWRmbHQmcF9ncmlkc29yd D0mcF9yb3dfY250PTE1JnBfc2VhcmNoX3R5cGU9c2VhcmNoX2Z ubCZwX3Byb2RfbHZsMT00MiZwX3Byb2RfbHZsMj0mcF9wYWdlP TE*&p_li=

It seems this is no longer true. From the March 2005 Koru Club Review

Access to Koru Lounges
Please keep in mind that access to the Koru Club Lounge or an associate airline's lounge is only available prior to your boarding of an Air New Zealand ticketed and operated flight.

The Nadi lounge says it opens "3 hours before departure". What if your flight is at 4:15AM? I think I won't be able to use it, but hopefully I'm wrong.

Yes they open lounge in the middle of the night. Its very basic but has good coffee (well it seemed a good idea at the time!)

Bumped to ask a question about SYD lounge...

...now that NZ has scrapped F, what's become of the FC lounge in SYD?

It still exists but open limited hours. Used by TG.

Thanks. What a pity... great lounge that one can't use when flying NZ!

Yup. Same with the F lounge at AKL (used by SQ and TG only).

Flew NZ176 PER-AKL on Saturday 4th. It seems that KC and NZ*G are requested to use the Qantas Club, not the SQ lounge.

I tried to get into the SQ lounge to compare, and despite it prominently displaying a *G sign, I got bounced by a guy standing outside who wouldn't let me go inside. The lounge hours did indicate it was open (1600 onwards); but perhaps it actually wasn't as I didn't get through the door.

The PER QC is quaint. The Telstra hotspots didn't work (no DHCP leases available); two internet PCs; showers were clean and reasonably nice, although no useful amenities; food was limited. Food was not fantastic, nor was there much of it.

Lounge was pretty dark with no external windows, and very limited in the beer department.

IIRC the SQ lounge is small and shuts before the NZ flight leaves, which is why NZ uses the QC. That said I have used SQ lounge on occasion.

ajnz - how did you find the redeye flight?

ajnz - how did you find the redeye flight?
It wasn't too bad. It had gone from a sure thing upgrade on Wednesday (10 seats available) to business being wait listed for purchases on Thursday morning. I don't know for sure, but I don't believe ANY upgrades cleared on the flight, except maybe some *E.

The flight only had ~5 or so Y seats empty, and other than the typical annoying passengers, I've had worse flights. Meal was OK -- choice of lamb with veges, or a chicken penne pasta. Movie was Aeon Flux, which turned out to be not what I was expecting when compared to the cartoons, so that was disappointing. The service was OK but not great, and they did run out of wine reasonably quickly.

Got a few hours sleep, then arrived in WLG and went to the KiwiFest wine trail. :) Apparently the flight the day before which some friends were on had absolutely terrible service, so I guess I didn't do too badly.

I was hoping to try the SQ lounge and compare it with the QC, but due to the door-firewall that didn't happen. The hours plaque outside did seem to indicate it would be open, but maybe they've changed their hours and not updated it. Either way, the QC lady didn't have a problem letting me in as *G with a guest.

It wasn't too bad. ...
<snip>
... and they did run out of wine reasonably quickly.

Does not compute!?! :confused: Sounds like my idea of a nightmare flight! :)

Does not compute!?! :confused: Sounds like my idea of a nightmare flight! :)
Indeed. I'd primed myself in the QC before getting on the plane, and being at the front meant that I had the widest selection before they ran out. And they still had plenty of vodka.... ;)

I have that flight coming up. Perhaps I should check how much booze they intend to load?

Worst view award goes to UA RCC JFK T7. Although you see some of the JetBlue action, the windows are lined with that see-through plastic stuff, kinda like those full-out bus ads.

Currently in the UA/NZ lounge in MEL saying a not so sad farewell.

The new lounge opens in a week and sounds great from what I am told - it actually has a window out to the airport, even though it is on ground level, and it faces the new A380 gates.

Formal opening to be with the new NZ MD as the Kiwi Commonwealth Games team leaves.

Will be thru MEL again in about three weeks, so will report if someone doesn't before

I can now see I must think of a reason to visit MEL next week.

I can now see I must think of a reason to visit MEL next week.

The Commonwealth Games!

Even though Melbourne is my home town, I have to say it looks magnificent.

The symbolic fish in the Yarra representing all the participating countries is very well done, and the rest of the city looks great.

I should add that one positive thing about the UA/NZ lounge is that there is a free SQ wireless network available. I used it yesterday and it was great. ^ I hope the new NZ lounge has the same availability.

I can now see I must think of a reason to visit MEL next week.

ntddevsys,

You should go over for the opening ceremony of the Games. There are apparently still about 10,000 seats still available (the MCG capacity is 100,000), with lots of good seats still around.

Try to get seats in the members area - it is a new stand and the facilities are impressive. I was there for the Boxing Day Test for four days and can vouch for it. Even the famous Long Room is "clean" and open to the public :D

Alas as nice as that sounds WellingtonFF, I should really have made myself clearer - I'm looking for a Business reason, though I guess networking could do it...

Alas as nice as that sounds WellingtonFF, I should really have made myself clearer - I'm looking for a Business reason, though I guess networking could do it...

Networking is definitely the way to go @:-)

WLG domestic: very nice lounge ^ Lots of room, and excellent views (even if the outside of the windows were a little dirty making photo of the surfing action at Lyall bay a little dicey). Food and beverage were decent. My laptop detected a WiFi signal, but was unable to connect... 2 PCs were available in the business center, though (so I was able to finalise a couple of travel plans I had cooking).

AKL international: decent lounge, if a bit of a trek to the gates. I thought it somewhat small, and then I saw an 'overflow' room which wasn't getting used—it wasn't very crowded anyway, as this was before a 7AM departure. To be fair, I didn't spend much time there to take a very good look around; I was busy finishing some postcards and getting in a quick nap before that wretched early flight...

SYD international: great lounge, good food, great beverages, clean showers, and free WiFi ^^^ can't ask for much more (the general lounge blows the doors off the UA IFCL :D ). The reception agent confirmed that the FC room is used strictly by TG.

...FWIW, there was no lounge in GIS that I could see (though I was in a hurry to get out to a couple of wineries and the Eastwoodhill Arboretum ;))

No lounge at all at GIS.

The NZ domestic lounges are:

Koru Club (= full *G priveliges) at
AKL, WLG, CHC, DUD

Regional Koru Club (= no guest access, less facilities) at
HLZ, NPL, NPE, PMR, NSN, ZQN, IVC

Link (http://www.airnz.co.nz/travelinfo/koruclub/loungedirectory/default.htm)

No lounge at all at GIS.Thanks ^

I didn't expect there'd be one... after all, I flew in on a Beech 1900D--the one with the open cockpit :D

IIRC NPL is served by Beech 1900D a/c and it has a regional koru club.

IIRC NPL is served by Beech 1900D a/c and it has a regional koru club.

Haven't seen one of those in NPL - just Saabs and the new Bombadier. Still haven't got into the NPL regional Koru either - still 4,000+ away from *G!

Haven't seen one of those in NPL - just Saabs and the new Bombadier. Still haven't got into the NPL regional Koru either - still 4,000+ away from *G!Trust me - you didn't miss much ;)

Good luck for the last 4k

Apologies - no BEH into NPL on the current schedules (unlike say BHE ;) )

Having recently sampled AKL Domestic and International, Sydney and Dunedin I must put in a vote for Dunedin.

Reasons:

1. The lounge is before security
2. Draft beer on tap
3. Friendly staff
4. Virtually no-one there
5. Excellent food in the evening - hot mushroom soup and savouries; finger sandwiches; cakes; dips etc
6. Montana Special Reserve sparkling and okay wine selection (choice of three red and three white)
7. Two working computers
8. Lots of magazines
9. Modern decor and very clean

Only absence - showers - but given it is basically a domestic - who cares.

Just my 2 cents to an old thread :)

KiwiPanda

I spent 6 hours last Friday in the Air NZ Melbourne Lounge. My early morning flight to Christchurch was cancelled due to a bird strike affecting the aircraft out of Wellington the previous evening.

I must say the lounge is up with the best that Air NZ offers. Plenty of setting in a number of different areas.Plenty of powerpoints and broadband access points. There is window looking out on to the tarmac and I was able to watch a Qantas 747 arrive and leave. The food selection was very good and service from staff excellent. Around midday I was in need of a G & T but alas no gin (the reorder had been overlooked). However the lady in charge went to Qantas Lounge and came back with a double (and the tonic of course). I call that service.

I spent 6 hours last Friday in the Air NZ Melbourne Lounge. My early morning flight to Christchurch was cancelled due to a bird strike affecting the aircraft out of Wellington the previous evening.

I must say the lounge is up with the best that Air NZ offers. Plenty of setting in a number of different areas.Plenty of powerpoints and broadband access points. There is window looking out on to the tarmac and I was able to watch a Qantas 747 arrive and leave. The food selection was very good and service from staff excellent. Around midday I was in need of a G & T but alas no gin (the reorder had been overlooked). However the lady in charge went to Qantas Lounge and came back with a double (and the tonic of course). I call that service.

I couldn't agree more. The service from the staff at that lounge was still the best I'd ever experienced at any lounge. I'm flying back to MEL in a few months and wishing that I could take advantage of the lounge after my arrival from AKL but know I can't.

I couldn't agree more. The service from the staff at that lounge was still the best I'd ever experienced at any lounge. I'm flying back to MEL in a few months...I'm going to have to make it a point to travel international out of MEL to experience this lounge next time down-under ^

I'm going to have to make it a point to travel international out of MEL to experience this lounge next time down-under ^

See my report with photos on the MEL lounge in another thread. I would agree with these comments

See my report with photos on the MEL lounge in another thread...I did; it was one of the first ones out ^

Was in the new CHC NZ international lounge yesterday, which opened just a few days earlier. It's a major improvement. Lots of nice spaces, new food and beverage selection. NZ is justifiably proud of their new addition.

Was in the new CHC NZ international lounge yesterday, which opened just a few days earlier. It's a major improvement. Lots of nice spaces, new food and beverage selection. NZ is justifiably proud of their new addition.


At last - CHC international had become my worst of the major NZ lounges. I have to say WLG domestic is starting to show its age a little IMHO, mainly because of the lack of some TLC. Of the newer lounges, I have been impressed with all of them - MEL, LAX and DUD, although the refurbished CHC domestic is rather cramped.

Is CHC international lounge still in the same spot or has it moved? And is it any bigger than it was before? It certainly used to be a disgrace :td:

I agree that WLG domestic is starting to look a bit worn about the edges (or to be more precise the furniture is) but all the fundamentals are still good, as is the view. AKL international is more in need of some love, I reckon...

Does ANZ have a lounge in Hong Kong? If not which should I use? I have *G and travelling J

Does ANZ have a lounge in Hong Kong? If not which should I use? I have *G and travelling J
Go for the Thai lounge, it's very nice!!

Air NZ does not have a lounge in HKG, not sure which one premium passengers are supposed to use, possibly the UA RCC.

Does ANZ have a lounge in Hong Kong? If not which should I use? I have *G and travelling J

NZ seems to list a Hong Kong lounge on the website in one area, but not the details of it.

If the Koru Club directory is wrong (I'll let others confirm this) then there are several other *A lounges at HKG - Thai, Singapore, and United have lounges. You might have better luck posting the question in the *A Forum.

NZ directs pax to RCC. The TG lounge is better though, and in the same general area.

On my recent travels with NZ I visited SQ lounge (at the other end of the terminal), but only because I had access to the F side through SQ status). The only benefit was an empty lounge.

The Thai lounge is the nicest but NOT if you want to shower. The UA RCC has more showers, and they are more regularly cleaned (and have sinks and toilets, whereas the single Thai shower has neither).

So go have a shower at the UA RCC, and then go sit at the Thai lounge. Though the UA RCC is usually reasonably quiet the times the NZ flights arrive and depart.

Was in the new CHC NZ international lounge yesterday, which opened just a few days earlier. It's a major improvement. Lots of nice spaces, new food and beverage selection. NZ is justifiably proud of their new addition.

Nice to hear that the CHC international lounge has been upgraded.
My ZQN-MEL and MEL-RAR flights will both be via CHC (waited too long to book and flights via AKL sold out), so it's good to hear that the CHC lounge will be more enjoyable than it was when I was there last year.

Excuse my ignorance of *A rules but if I am travelling SFO-AKL on a VS partner award ticket on NZ in J can I access a lounge in SFO? Would NZ direct me to a particular lounge or would I be able to use any *A one? I have no *A status.

Flying NZ business class you have access to the lounge NZ uses, whether you are on a paid or award ticket. At SFO NZ uses the UA RCC.

Flying NZ business class you have access to the lounge NZ uses, whether you are on a paid or award ticket. At SFO NZ uses the UA RCC.

UA RCC at SFO is nowhere near the standard of the NZ lounge at LAX, but for a RCC, it is not too bad, apart from having to pay for the booze after using the initial freebie

and no real food, and tipping for the free booze, and arguing to get the drink chits, and no shower, and no computers, and unclean, and ... well you get the idea

I'll throw in my $.02 for the CHC lounge - beautiful. I actually enjoyed it more than the QF First Lounge (which seems to be considered one of the top lounges?). While CHC is smaller, the sofas are plentiful, the decor is fantastic and the showers are top notch. They went out of their way to create private corners that give a feeling of solitude. Very nice indeed.

Thanks to taking the 'international shuttle' flight CHC-AKL the other day I finally got to try out the new CHC international lounge. Wow! What a vast, vast improvement - it's gone from being by far the worst NZ lounge I'd seen to being the best (bearing in mind its relatively small size etc). I haven't been to any of the other new concept ones (eg MEL) so I don't know how it compares, but I was very impressed. Really interesting design, attractive details and materials, lots of comfortable and quite private spaces, beautiful bathrooms (worthy of a 5 star hotel). The AKL intl lounge looked especially poor by comparison.

I commented to the CHC lounge dragon (just a figure of speech, she was lovely really) about what a huge improvement it was and she fairly glowed with pride - she said "we're really chuffed with it, it's so nice to have a space which people actually want to spend time in".

Good job AirNZ :) Now please, please do AKL next...

Thanks to taking the 'international shuttle' flight CHC-AKL the other day I finally got to try out the new CHC international lounge. Wow! What a vast, vast improvement - it's gone from being by far the worst NZ lounge I'd seen to being the best (bearing in mind its relatively small size etc). I haven't been to any of the other new concept ones (eg MEL) so I don't know how it compares, but I was very impressed. Really interesting design, attractive details and materials, lots of comfortable and quite private spaces, beautiful bathrooms (worthy of a 5 star hotel). The AKL intl lounge looked especially poor by comparison.

I commented to the CHC lounge dragon (just a figure of speech, she was lovely really) about what a huge improvement it was and she fairly glowed with pride - she said "we're really chuffed with it, it's so nice to have a space which people actually want to spend time in".

Good job AirNZ :) Now please, please do AKL next...

Well finally someone that shares my sentiments about the Auckland lounge! I think the AKL lounge is pathetic, as NZ's home base you would think that lounge would be better than MEL, SYD, LAX etc, but its far worse. Large yes, old yes, tired looking yes!

I am happy to hear that the CHC lounge is nice as my Mum will be using it in January as a surprise. She told me to book economy, I booked her Business for a MEL-AKL, then CHC-MEL flight. 744 to AKL, but A320 on the way back. But two nice lounges to look forward too! :)

I have to agree on AKL - it seems even more rattier with each visit, It is well overdue for a refurb. It looks so 'early 1990's'.

Anyone heard if its going to get an overhaul?

Thanks to taking the 'international shuttle' flight CHC-AKL the other day I finally got to try out the new CHC international lounge. Wow! What a vast, vast improvement - it's gone from being by far the worst NZ lounge I'd seen to being the best (bearing in mind its relatively small size etc). I haven't been to any of the other new concept ones (eg MEL) so I don't know how it compares, but I was very impressed. Really interesting design, attractive details and materials, lots of comfortable and quite private spaces, beautiful bathrooms (worthy of a 5 star hotel). The AKL intl lounge looked especially poor by comparison.

I commented to the CHC lounge dragon (just a figure of speech, she was lovely really) about what a huge improvement it was and she fairly glowed with pride - she said "we're really chuffed with it, it's so nice to have a space which people actually want to spend time in".

Good job AirNZ :) Now please, please do AKL next...

I am looking forward to seeing the new CHC lounge for the first time on the way to MEL next Tuesday. The old lounge certainly wasn't up to it. I am not sure I agree about AKL though, it is a similar style to SYD which I was through a week ago. I actually prefer AKL.

But I certainly prefer the new MEL style, and like DUD as a regional lounge with a different concept, and I was certainly impressed with the new LAX lounge when I was through there last year. I think NZ have done very well with their new lounges. I have a trip coming up in early November which will involve a fair bit of domestic travel in the US, so I will see a few RCCs, including SEA, SFO, DEN, and ORD. They won't be able to compare in any way with any of the NZ lounges.

and no real food, and tipping for the free booze, and arguing to get the drink chits, and no shower, and no computers, and unclean, and ... well you get the idea

Yes, and I am looking forward to at least 4 RCCs for my November trip:td:

I am looking forward to seeing the new CHC lounge for the first time on the way to MEL next Tuesday. The old lounge certainly wasn't up to it. I am not sure I agree about AKL though, it is a similar style to SYD which I was through a week ago. I actually prefer AKL.

But I certainly prefer the new MEL style, and like DUD as a regional lounge with a different concept, and I was certainly impressed with the new LAX lounge when I was through there last year. I think NZ have done very well with their new lounges. I have a trip coming up in early November which will involve a fair bit of domestic travel in the US, so I will see a few RCCs, including SEA, SFO, DEN, and ORD. They won't be able to compare in any way with any of the NZ lounges.

I thought the SYD lounge was in the same style as MEL ?

Found a reviews of the SYD NZ lounge it looks much better than AKL, not up to MEL standards, more like LAX I would say.

The SYD lounge is one I haven't been to before

http://www.loungeguide.net/wiki/u/Sydney_(SYD)_Air_New_Zealand_Business_Class_Koru_C lub_Lounge

I don't think the AKL international lounge is awful, it's just looking very tired and outdated. Given the very high quality of the new lounges it seems particularly bad, but compared to many competitor lounges it's fine I guess. It *is* a bit crowded these days, though.

I find the SYD lounge preferable, though that is probably in part because it was refurbished rather more recently than the AKL one. It's a simple design but it ticks pretty much all the required boxes, plus it's usually not very busy, the food is decent, and the views are great. Plus it's my home base, so I'm kinda fond of it :)

I thought the SYD lounge was in the same style as MEL ?

No SYD refurbishment pre-dates the bach concept being rolled out (MEL, CHC)

No SYD refurbishment pre-dates the bach concept being rolled out (MEL, CHC)

Thanks :) Any ideas on a date for the AKL lounge ?

I am looking forward to seeing the new CHC lounge for the first time on the way to MEL next Tuesday. The old lounge certainly wasn't up to it. I am not sure I agree about AKL though, it is a similar style to SYD which I was through a week ago. I actually prefer AKL.

But I certainly prefer the new MEL style, and like DUD as a regional lounge with a different concept, and I was certainly impressed with the new LAX lounge when I was through there last year. I think NZ have done very well with their new lounges. I have a trip coming up in early November which will involve a fair bit of domestic travel in the US, so I will see a few RCCs, including SEA, SFO, DEN, and ORD. They won't be able to compare in any way with any of the NZ lounges.

I went through CHC International today, and my view even being a Melburnian is that with MEL being the first batch style concept lounge, CHC has moved up a rung. Slightly smaller, but a move up in terms of design IMHO. Toilets a little cramped, but the rest great, and very tastefully done.

Food and booze not quite up to the MEL standards however, but I guess that depends on the location manager, and their budget.

Well done, NZ

No lounge at all at GIS.

The NZ domestic lounges are:

Koru Club (= full *G priveliges) at
AKL, WLG, CHC, DUD

Regional Koru Club (= no guest access, less facilities) at
HLZ, NPL, NPE, PMR, NSN, ZQN, IVC

Link (http://www.airnz.co.nz/travelinfo/koruclub/loungedirectory/default.htm)

Hi all,

Was at the NPE lounge earlier this month - it's quite small, but has a great view, and has plenty of cushioned chairs, however the cushions were all feathered and quite musty. The usual selection of packaged crackers and cheeses, plus coffee, juice or beer/wine were available, but man, was the place messy! I've never seen so many cups, utensils and napkins scattered around in a lounge in my life! The baggage handlers came up to clean the place, and I felt sorry for them (after the initial surprise at seeing them have to do the job).

There's one computer but wi-fi is available for free - look for the logon and password on a small piece of paper taped to the computer.

The highlight, however, was watching a guy try to figure out how to open the locked janitor's closet to get to the toilet - I guess he didn't figure he'd have to go downstairs to the public facilities, haha! :p

I fly a lot between AKL and LAX and would agree with the other comments already posted - AKL is spacious but needs a redo, and LAX is great but can get crowded. One of the AKL dragons expressed quite a bit of displeasure with me in Feb 2006 when I was shocked at the lack of wi-fi at that time (which is now available)...oops!

NPE lounge has a computer now? Great. It didn't when I visited earlier in the year.

I like AKL Intl - it's simple and uncomplicated. While I wish they'd match the beer in the domestic KCs, I think it meets most needs right now. I've never not been able to find a seat in it (even in the morning rush hours; I'm there less often in the evening).

I also like SYD and I think one of the reasons people like it is due to the simple spaciousness - it's a huge lounge but not a heavy frequency or large number of widebodies at a single point in time.

MEL is OK - I actually have seen people playing pool the last few times I've been there, but the hot food tends to run out quickly before all the flights have departed, which I find very annoying.

I do like AC's Maple Leaf Lounge in YYZ due to the fact it has Guinness on tap :)

Which lounge do NZ use in PER? I can't find this information anywhere!

I have to agree on AKL - it seems even more rattier with each visit, It is well overdue for a refurb. It looks so 'early 1990's'.

Anyone heard if its going to get an overhaul?

Everything is relative, I guess. I'm in the AKL lounge right now. For my money, it's pretty good: plentiful, comfortable seats with abudnant food and alcohol, free wi-fi, decent showers, and different types of rooms depending on one's mood (dark, light, windows, no windows, etc.) Compared to UA's RCCs, they are in different leagues with the possible exception of the beer machine and showers at NRT.

NPE lounge has a computer now?NSN now too.

The usual selection of packaged crackers and cheeses, plus coffee, juice or beer/wine were available...That is one thing that has always got me about the small domestic lounges, I can always get a beer, any time, but not a soft drink. Any thoughts from anyone on why that is?

Which lounge do NZ use in PER? I can't find this information anywhere!The Qantas Club.

Everything is relative, I guess. I'm in the AKL lounge right now. For my money, it's pretty good: plentiful, comfortable seats with abudnant food and alcohol, free wi-fi, decent showers, and different types of rooms depending on one's mood (dark, light, windows, no windows, etc.) Compared to UA's RCCs, they are in different leagues with the possible exception of the beer machine and showers at NRT.

There are so many different options on the AKL lounge it's amazing really :)

Personally I dislike the AKL lounge and find the MEL one sensational, LAX is nice but too busy.

Call me strange but I actually prefer the RCC at LAX or even DEN over the AKL NZ lounge!

Looking forward to my Mum going to the AKL lounge and CHC lounge in December. I have shouted her Business class airfare from MEL-AKL and then CHC-MEL, she hasn't been in an airline lounge for close to 5 years

She will be shocked and being in her 60's may not like the AKL lounge!

Call me strange but I actually prefer the RCC at LAX or even DEN over the AKL NZ lounge!You're strange then. :)

While AKL isn't the most modern, I find it pretty functional and it is lightyears ahead of the LAX RCC in terms of amenities. It would be nice if they upgraded it (seats especially) and made it feel a little more 'this decade' but I don't really mind either way though.

I was in the AKL Koru Lounge today from 16:00 - 17:00. It was standing room only. Granted it is a long weekend, I have never seen it this full.

I was in the AKL Koru Lounge today from 16:00 - 17:00. It was standing room only. Granted it is a long weekend, I have never seen it this full.

Is that domestic or international? Domestic - that is normal in peak hour :( although being start of long weekend the rush probably started earlier than normal.

International is also overcrowded at times. I wrote a complaint after a recent flight in TG F when there were no seats available in the lounge. Pathetic that even flying first class out of a *A hub you cannot guarantee you will have a seat in the lounge while waiting departure :td: Apparently NZ is planning on beginning work to expand the international lounge next year, so it will get worse before it gets any better.

Is that domestic or international? Domestic - that is normal in peak hour :( although being start of long weekend the rush probably started earlier than normal.

International is also overcrowded at times. I wrote a complaint after a recent flight in TG F when there were no seats available in the lounge. Pathetic that even flying first class out of a *A hub you cannot guarantee you will have a seat in the lounge while waiting departure :td: Apparently NZ is planning on beginning work to expand the international lounge next year, so it will get worse before it gets any better.

Domestic.

MEL lounge goes from strength to strength IMHO. Today the hot snack was an absolutely deliceous salmon kebab, with chilli and lime rice.

Usual excellent selection of Australian and New Zealand wines, including Lidauer Reserve champers, which is very decent indeed.

are there still shower facilities at the lounge in AKL? i'll probably be going SFO-AKL-SYD and would love to take a shower upon arrival.

yes - at both domestic and international lounges

Is it still the case that business class travelers (without Koru membership) only have access prior to international travel? So for AKL-MEL we can't use MEL upon arrival?

What happens if you are arriving on international business and connecting to domestic economy at AKL? No access to any lounge?

Finally, any commentary on the BNE international lounge (it's listed on the NZ website)??

P.S. The links on the first thread are outdated... :)

MEL lounge is airside and no access without onward same day international BP/ticket.

For international business -> domestic connection at AKL - *G definitely have access to the domestic koru club. Non-status pax might get access by showing the arrival boarding pass - but not an entitlement.

BNE lounge was fairly ordinary last time I used it a few years ago. AFAIK it hasn't been refurbished since. Since then I've used BNE EK and QF lounges instead.

Good Lord!! I am flying AKL-CHC today so I used the domestic lounge. I cannot believe they are serving a full hot breakfast (pancakes w/ whipped cream, sausage, eggs, toast, and more!!) and have girls walking around with chocolate truffles and fruit! I'm jealous of you Kiwis, I hate US air travel. :rolleyes:

Don't forget the 24 different beers (okay maybe not at breakfast time).

Don't forget the 24 different beers (okay maybe not at breakfast time).

My 9am flight was canceled so I am on the 12:30pm. There will be PLENTY of time to try the various beers. After seeing this lounge I am glad the flight was canceled. :D

That is a long time to wait on a main trunk route. Were the flights in between also cancelled or oversold? As *G you should have been rebooked onto the earliest available flight.

That is a long time to wait on a main trunk route. Were the flights in between also cancelled or oversold? As *G you should have been rebooked onto the earliest available flight.

They tried to put me on the 9am QF flight but that was full. They offered a connection in WLG but that would put me in later than the non stop 12:30pm. All other flights are full, even though experflyer shows Y7. :confused: I think there was more than one CHC cancellation this morning. The club agent said she could waitlist me on an earlier flight but not without losing my confirmed seat on the 12:30pm.

Good Lord!! I am flying AKL-CHC today so I used the domestic lounge. I cannot believe they are serving a full hot breakfast (pancakes w/ whipped cream, sausage, eggs, toast, and more!!) and have girls walking around with chocolate truffles and fruit! I'm jealous of you Kiwis, I hate US air travel. :rolleyes:
Yes the KC are one of the best domestic lounges around.
Note I am reliably told that the dinner offerings, after 5 pm are quite nice as well.
Last weekend from personal experience.
WLG Butter Chicken and rice, plus the usually antipasto and salads
CHC Chicken Fried Rice and Hot Dogs on buns (with sauteed onions, ketchup and mustard) and the assorted anitpasto etc.
Oh Kiwi Flyer I believe the beer counts are down across the board, 19.:eek:

yes - at both domestic and international lounges

i assume even as a UA *G flying in Y? and, i love the NZ lounges in AKL and SYD. very nice. but i was last there in 05 and didn't really notice if they had showers. so thanks for the input!

yes all *G flying NZ have access (+ 1 guest)

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Wow, a guy in a Santa hat and a Santa sack just came around handing out christmas stocking filled with goodies!!

19 sounds high for AKL Dom. The last time (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showpost.php?p=8851249&postcount=36) I counted there were only 13 varieties :eek:

MEL lounge goes from strength to strength IMHO. Today the hot snack was an absolutely deliceous salmon kebab, with chilli and lime rice.

Usual excellent selection of Australian and New Zealand wines, including Lidauer Reserve champers, which is very decent indeed.

One negative. All the male toilet doors still have their latches inoperative, with rather permanent signs saying so. A dispute with the original contractors I guess. A shame given the standard of the rest of the lounge. I will be through there again in about three weeks after Xmas in Melbourne and taking in the Boxing Day Test, so it will be interesting to see whether they have been fixed.

Forget about the selection of beers, when I go through MEL next time, I will list the selection of wines, which is remarkable.

No wonder our American friends are envious, and having done a few RCC's recently in the US, an AC lounge in Vancouver, a dreadful *G in Rome, and even the Silver Kris lounge in SIN, I can only agree.

The standards of the International lounges and the Koru Clubs has noticeably gone up in the past year IMHO. WLG international still struggles though.

I recently had the pleasure of using the domestic and international lounges at AKL, as well as the international lounge at CHC, all for the first time. I am thoroughly impressed. The selection and quality of food was excellent, and overall amenities were nice. CHC was particularly quiet and pleasant. ^ ^

Of course, the SYD Koru is always good too. :)

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Wow, a guy in a Santa hat and a Santa sack just came around handing out christmas stocking filled with goodies!!

I went MEL - WLG yesterday, and the purser or whatever they call them on NZ had a Santa hat on, although he didn't have any goodies in a sack. I am doing WLG - MEL Sunday, and I can't wait to see whether indeed there is a Santa's sack on the plane, and I get some goodies. :D

Sitting in AKL Int right now. There are no significant numbers of spare seats available - sort of 1 or 2 seats in a group of 4 or 5. The Korean Air flight has started boarding which has thinned the seating out.

Beer count: 14. WLG Domestic had 24 on the 30th of Dec.

I hope they enhance the size of the lounge soon - I'm surprised at how full it is right now (infact AKL in general is a zoo at the moment) - although there have been a couple of flight delays due to late arrivals from LAX this morning.

Sitting here enjoying a nice Monteiths Black contemplating the people that fail to mute their laptops in public areas. :mad::mad::mad::mad:

Please people, mute your laptops in the lounge. I don't need to hear that you've got email, or the beeps or bongs of you doing things, nor the windows startup sound. It's really annoying.

Sitting in AKL Int right now. There are no significant numbers of spare seats available - sort of 1 or 2 seats in a group of 4 or 5. The Korean Air flight has started boarding which has thinned the seating out.

Beer count: 14. WLG Domestic had 24 on the 30th of Dec.

I hope they enhance the size of the lounge soon - I'm surprised at how full it is right now (infact AKL in general is a zoo at the moment) - although there have been a couple of flight delays due to late arrivals from LAX this morning.

The AKL Int lounge is getting upgraded to the MEL/CHC/SYD/LAX style this year I believe :) Not before time either

It doesn't need an upgrade. AKL international lounge needs a ~50% expansion. Is crowded for too much of the day now.

It doesn't need an upgrade. AKL international lounge needs a ~50% expansion. Is crowded for too much of the day now.

We have been through this before :p I think the AKL is a dump when compared to MEL, SYD, CHC, LAX.

Consdering it's NZ's home base it should be the best, newest and biggest lounge.

Yes it's too crowded, so how about an upgrade to the MEL style and 50% bigger at the same time ?

I'd settle for the space enhancement. The other aspects of the MEL lounge don't do anything much for me - the seating got terribly reduced when they changed it into what it is now.

The WiFi was incredibly slow in AKL today, with what looked like at least 50 people on their laptops using it. More bandwidth needed, I think. It took 15 minutes to sync 2.3MB of email.

I'd settle for the space enhancement. The other aspects of the MEL lounge don't do anything much for me - the seating got terribly reduced when they changed it into what it is now.

The WiFi was incredibly slow in AKL today, with what looked like at least 50 people on their laptops using it. More bandwidth needed, I think. It took 15 minutes to sync 2.3MB of email.

Than the old one? The new one has much greater seating compared with both the old NZ lounge and the RCC. I am a great fan of the MEL lounge.

Than the old one? The new one has much greater seating compared with both the old NZ lounge and the RCC. I am a great fan of the MEL lounge.I don't remember the old one, but the amount of seating in the MEL lounge has decreased between September 2006 and present, and I recall during that time parts of the lounge changed a lot. The current style of it really doesn't offer much in seating for a lone traveler, apart at the middle laptop/wine bar.

I don't remember the old one, but the amount of seating in the MEL lounge has decreased between September 2006 and present, and I recall during that time parts of the lounge changed a lot. The current style of it really doesn't offer much in seating for a lone traveler, apart at the middle laptop/wine bar.

I have travelled through the MEL lounge a lot since it was opened. There was a pool table put in a while back which reduced some of the seating, and I grumbled at the time. I was through immediately prior to Xmas, and didn't notice if it was still there, but I will be through again on Saturday, so I shall check. I still think it is a great lounge, (although I wish they would fix the ongoing saga of the toilet locks) the CHC domestic clone is a little cramped, but the nice head lounge dragon lady there told me that they were restricted to the space they had until there was a domestic terminal upgrade, and the new CHC international clone is certainly a move up from MEL IMHO. I think NZ has got the concept right, and that it is a strong point of differentiation from their competitors. But I guess anything would be in comparison with an RCC.

Yep the MEL lounge is my favorite lounge at the moment!

Yes - Anything compared to the RCC is far better

well have been to a couple of int lounges recently chc int is brill and well thought out, opened in may as most know but such a nice layout and veiw is great. BNE , still a bore but functional...just but then who has a nice lounge , PVG ...well the partner lounge is a disgrace but then the ff here will probably know wether or not this is par for the course, dont NZ demand a decent std when starting a relatively new service ,
akl has its moments when its so fliipping crowded why dont they knock the first class wall down?? Do they still use it???

the old first class area is used as a crew briefing room

Don't get me wrong: MEL is a very nice lounge, significantly better than most of the competition.

However, I think the design as it stands is wasteful of space, and on Friday nights there is often no seating left with the AKL/WLG/CHC flights all departing in a tight grouping.

I'm in the lounge right now as it happens and a few notes:


Very glad to see that there is finally WiFi in here... but I have to wonder how many power points are distributed around the place other than the central table area
Beer count is 10, including Monteiths Black (woohoo)
The Speights tap looks to be offline still (the logo is turned away) but I didn't try it
Door locks in the bathroom are still broken although it does say 'They are sourcing replacements soon'
Food is a quite nice pasta and some sort of meat contraption
The cheese platter has run out
One of the lounge attendants managed to pop the cork on a bottle of sparkling with quite comedic effects ;)


And of course, no lounge would be complete without a gentleman wandering around shouting into his cellphone about selling shares and using all of his legal options against someone.

Forgot to mention: There are people playing on both the pool table and foosball table.

Don't get me wrong: MEL is a very nice lounge, significantly better than most of the competition.

However, I think the design as it stands is wasteful of space, and on Friday nights there is often no seating left with the AKL/WLG/CHC flights all departing in a tight grouping.

I'm in the lounge right now as it happens and a few notes:


Very glad to see that there is finally WiFi in here... but I have to wonder how many power points are distributed around the place other than the central table area
Beer count is 10, including Monteiths Black (woohoo)
The Speights tap looks to be offline still (the logo is turned away) but I didn't try it
Door locks in the bathroom are still broken although it does say 'They are sourcing replacements soon'
Food is a quite nice pasta and some sort of meat contraption
The cheese platter has run out
One of the lounge attendants managed to pop the cork on a bottle of sparkling with quite comedic effects ;)


And of course, no lounge would be complete without a gentleman wandering around shouting into his cellphone about selling shares and using all of his legal options against someone.

I hate to say it, but the signs on the toilet doors have been there for about three months now. Did you check out the wine selection - I will do it and report after Saturday. It was very impressive just prior to Xmas

I hate to say it, but the signs on the toilet doors have been there for about three months now. Did you check out the wine selection - I will do it and report after Saturday. It was very impressive just prior to XmasYeah, I know they've been there for a while but I hadn't read them - didn't know if it was news about the replacement sourcing.

I didn't look at the wine - I thought I'd leave that up to you since you offered :).

Has anyone met that charming French man who works at the LAX lounge? What a gentleman!

The NZ lounge has to the best of all the lounges at LAX. Most of them are grim beyond belief!

Yeah, I know they've been there for a while but I hadn't read them - didn't know if it was news about the replacement sourcing.

I didn't look at the wine - I thought I'd leave that up to you since you offered :).

In the MEL lounge now before heading back to WLG, and as promised the listing of wines is as follows

Red

Wynns Coonawarra Estate Shiraz 2006 Coonawarra
Oyster Bay Pinot Noir 2006 Marlborough
Oyster Bay Merlot 2006 Hawkes Bay
Dashwood Pinot Noir 2006 Marlborough
Tatachilla Bros Cabinet Shiraz 2005 McLaren Vale

White

Oyster Bay Chardonnay 2007 Marlborough
Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2007 Marlborough
Dashwood Sauvignon Blanc 2006 Marlborough

Bubbles

Lindauer Special Reserve (not the ordinary, the special reserve is an excellent fizz)

Sherry

Williams Amontillado
Seppelts Amontillado

Port

Galway Pipe

My only grizzle would be that after three weeks of Melbourne summer, with a number of days above 40, the lounge only had the light version of my favourite beer , Cascade. ;-)

A remarkable and good quality selection IMHO, without going over the top.

Together with some very tasty food, and excellent service in terms of keeping the lounge clean and tidy, a very big tick for NZ for the MEL lounge.

Now I am looking forward to MEL – WLG in 2A business class as an end to the Xmas break before getting down to some serious business again next week.

Yep the MEL lounge is sensational and as I always say it makes the AKL Int. lounge look very old and dated.

Hi Kiwi Flyer :) :p

Having just returned from AKL I wanted to say that I found both the AKL international and domestic lounges to be outstanding. BNE was nice as well. And the SYD lounge was the best of the four I visited (UA, SQ, EK) though EK (SYD) definitely had a better food presentation, but not enough showers. The Qantas Club at AKL had a fairly mediocre breakfast menu.

One feature that many people appreciate but may never notice is the children's playroom. Not only does this provide a great place for youngsters to play but it also keeps them from disturbing the rest of you who prefer a peaceful atmosphere (I'm not including the dolts loudly yakking away on cells). Not sure why other airlines haven't picked up on this idea. Maybe they think it will encourage people to bring kids. News flash: the kids are already there, in some places running wild :(

Every single NZ lounge employee was friendly, courteous, helpful and welcoming. Quite a shock to those of us who have spent time in UA's RCCs! Plus free self-serve beverages incl. spirits, and free internet terminals. And plenty of showers at AKL.

I don't really get the compaints. None of them were overcrowded, in fact the AKL domestic lounge was almost dead at 7pm.

PVG ...well the partner lounge is a disgrace but then the ff here will probably know wether or not this is par for the course, dont NZ demand a decent std when starting a relatively new service ,
akl has its moments when its so fliipping crowded why dont they knock the first class wall down?? Do they still use it???

NZ will move in March to the new PVG T2. Shanghai Airlines will have a huge lounge open for *G members. Not sure what will happen to the existing SQ and NH lounges.

Does anyone know the lounge arrangements for NZ at Beijing (PEK)?

Does anyone know the lounge arrangements for NZ at Beijing (PEK)?

The new PEK T3 is scheduled to open in March as well which will accommodate all *A carriers and a few others. Air China claims there will be a world's largest *G lounge. I would imagine NZ would be using that one.

I'm with you Mr Sydney! I feel somewhat ashamed that I can't remember his name... and because my hearing is not all that great his marvellous accent gave me some problems!! He was excellent.. but then again so was the younger guy who efficiently "rounded up" all the pax for our flight .. I thought he was just announcing that boarding had started.. but no.. escorted us down to the gate - chatting and being sociable - and directed us past the waiting multitudes onto the airbridge...

(That was actually a little embarrasing....:rolleyes:)

The LAX lounge was nowhere near full (a Wednesday night) and my Dear ol' Mum enjoyed it immensley (as did I)... at the end of a (tiring!) month long holiday I think she really appreciated the difference that such a lounge makes to the departure process......

NZ lounges are the ONLY ones I've used.... so......looks like my expectations may not be met elsewhere!!:D

Is there any way to get a one day pass to the Koru lounge in Auckland or one in Christchurch? Thanks

No. Buying Koru Club membership is rather an expensive way to gain access. Otherwise business class travel, *G status or guest of *G/koru club are the ways to get in.

When are you travelling, and where?

What time does the International lounge in AKL open? I land at 4:30 am and would love a shower.
Cheers

What time does the International lounge in AKL open? I land at 4:30 am and would love a shower.
Cheers
Are you doing an international transist in AKL?
If so the opening time is between 4:30 to 5:00, well it can be quite variable.
If you are not doing an international transit, then you do not have access to the lounge.
Oh International transit includes the CHC shuttle flight.

I visited the WLG domestic Koru Club for the first time since the renovations. I do like the new layout as the Kiwi Bach concept does seem to fit well in that space.

The only question-mark I have is that the seating is grouped a little too poorly for solo travelers or groups of two - it really seems aimed at groups of 4+ which is not that typical.

Bathrooms were not yet finished...

I visited the WLG domestic Koru Club for the first time since the renovations. I do like the new layout as the Kiwi Bach concept does seem to fit well in that space.

The only question-mark I have is that the seating is grouped a little too poorly for solo travelers or groups of two - it really seems aimed at groups of 4+ which is not that typical.

Bathrooms were not yet finished...Really? I hate it!

Barn-like someone said.

NZ international lounge does not open until 5am, unfortunately.

But if not having a same day onward international flight on *A, there is no access. Domestic lounge opens approx 5:30am weekdays and 6:00am weekends.

Really? I hate it!

Barn-like someone said.
I like the decor as it really is so different from other lounges. To me the designers hit their brief well.
What I do not like are the seating arrangements but also the cane seats. They really hurt my back.:td:

Really? I hate it!

Barn-like someone said.
Well, I think it fits the space in WLG much better than it does in CHC or MEL, primarily because WLG is a much brighter/well lit lounge (I guess due to being glass on 3 sides).

I'm still not sure about the concept overall, but I thought it looked nice generally speaking and was a step up from the old lounge at least in feeling spacious and around the food area. Although I do note they've reduced the number of coffee machines now that there is a permanent barista (who was rather slow on Wednesday morning).

I dunno - I really thought MEL was terrible when it opened, so I guess the concept has slowly grown on me!

NZ international lounge does not open until 5am, unfortunately.

But if not having a same day onward international flight on *A, there is no access. Domestic lounge opens approx 5:30am weekdays and 6:00am weekends.

I have a AKL-SYD flight at 7 am on NZ

I have a AKL-SYD flight at 7 am on NZ

If your flight is on time then you will have a short wait for the lounge to open. Transit security should be open by the time you land, but if not use the phone on the wall to ask them to open up. There will be no problem getting a shower - I've rarely seen them used at that hour of day.

Well, I think it fits the space in WLG much better than it does in CHC or MEL, primarily because WLG is a much brighter/well lit lounge (I guess due to being glass on 3 sides).

I'm still not sure about the concept overall, but I thought it looked nice generally speaking and was a step up from the old lounge at least in feeling spacious and around the food area. Although I do note they've reduced the number of coffee machines now that there is a permanent barista (who was rather slow on Wednesday morning).

I dunno - I really thought MEL was terrible when it opened, so I guess the concept has slowly grown on me!
I like the WLG lounge and echo the thoughts of others with the seating layout though. Bit tricky to find somewhere to sit on one's own.
For the record though, I actually prefer QF's lounge! but that is because it is too refurbished and usually very quiet (perhaps due to QF punctuality?)
dj

If your flight is on time then you will have a short wait for the lounge to open. Transit security should be open by the time you land, but if not use the phone on the wall to ask them to open up. There will be no problem getting a shower - I've rarely seen them used at that hour of day.

How late is that flight usually? I think my SYD flight is at 7 am

That depends. Where are you arriving from? There is more than one early morning flight ;) I have personal experience of some of these early morning flights, or you could look up the stats on www.flightstats.com

There are lots of flights to Sydney so I wouldn't worry about a small risk of misconnection.

That depends. Where are you arriving from? There is more than one early morning flight ;) I have personal experience of some of these early morning flights, or you could look up the stats on www.flightstats.com

There are lots of flights to Sydney so I wouldn't worry about a small risk of misconnection.

LAX-AKL :o

LAX-AKL :o

As kiwiflyer said if you do miss you connection there is many more flights to be transferred to.

Eg

Auckland to Sydney-Kingsford Smith Airport - Tue 11 Nov 2008
Departs Arrives Flight Info Stops Duration
7:00am 8:30am NZ0101 - 3h30m
9:00am 10:30am NZ0703 - 3h30m
12:45pm 2:15pm NZ0119 - 3h30m
4:00pm 5:30pm NZ0105 - 3h30m
5:30pm 7:00pm NZ0707 - 3h30m

I like the decor as it really is so different from other lounges. To me the designers hit their brief well.
What I do not like are the seating arrangements but also the cane seats. They really hurt my back.:td:Does this include the scratched up wooden floors?

I would have thought that functional seating arrangements, and the ability to work while seated would have been part of the plan.

Does this include the scratched up wooden floors?

I would have thought that functional seating arrangements, and the ability to work while seated would have been part of the plan.
During the renovations there were a couple of huge scratches in the food area but they seemed to have been sanded out.
Of course judging by the way may wooden floors at home are now like, the designers definitely hit their mark if they wanted people to think that they are at home:o
When alone I tend to sit on the stools or work on the long benches.

Does anyone have pics of the refurbished WLG koru lounge? I have spent many, many happy hours in the old one so I'd be curious to see how it looks post-facelift - even if it is just another way of tormenting myself, given that the only lounge options at my disposal here are dismal RCCs and US Airways Clubs :(

BTW, getting a barista sounds like a good move. I used to get a twinge of envy walking past the Fuel coffee stand on my way to the lounge, but more often than not my cheapskate tendencies won out. Either that or I decided it was more like wine time than coffee time ;)

Sorry mad_atta my photographing days are over.

During the renovations there were a couple of huge scratches in the food area but they seemed to have been sanded out.
Of course judging by the way may wooden floors at home are now like, the designers definitely hit their mark if they wanted people to think that they are at home:o
When alone I tend to sit on the stools or work on the long benches.Still noticeable I think.

I find the long benches very awkward to work from. Everything feels much more open and there is no-where to hide away.

Sorry mad_atta my photographing days are over.

Still noticeable I think.

I find the long benches very awkward to work from. Everything feels much more open and there is no-where to hide away.
Yeah some signs of it were there.

If you need a private work area, try the "cell" by the phone recharger and shoe polisher.

Oh major gripe is the new set up for the men's toilets. Not too happy with it three separate bathrooms.:td:

Can anyone advise if the newly re-furbished WLG domestic lounge has a kids zone? If so, where is it situated?

Can anyone advise if the newly re-furbished WLG domestic lounge has a kids zone? If so, where is it situated?Nope, it's one giant barn.

I think one of the best domestic lounges would be Dunedin. no seriously :)
It isn't as crowded as WLG or ALK, as a matter of fact, once i was there alone [well, it was an ATR flight..*shudders*] and always has fresh food out that you don't have to race to before it is all gone. Also there is a large selection of drinks in the fridge [including soft drinks], which i prefer to having on tap - you can take a bottle with you! [I also love the ice cream fridge tucked away in the corner, gotta love triple choc]
Also, it is before security and reasonably close to the gates, although you have to know where you are going to get there.
Nice and modern too, renovated just before the 'batch' theme came in so' none of the cane seats!!! Nice comfy armchairs and lots of tables, small workstation though.
I think one of the best things is the awesome staff on desk, they actually seem to be doing things - not hanging around like 'flies on the wall' watching you put down your empty glass so they can swoop in and take it type that i have run into at some other KC that shall-not-be-mentioned *cough*ALK INT*cough*
NSN isn't that bad either, never run into the problem of not being able to take guests in, normally only 2 groups of people in there anyway - no hot food tho :(

I do find ALK INT. a bit of a joke, add 50% then maybe ill take it seriously. Couldn't find 3 seats together anywhere..

That's my long 10 cents anyway...:p

Welcome to Flyer Talk melhnz :)

DUD is pretty nice, although when I was there a week ago it was rather full and the very limited food offering disappeared within minutes of being put out :(

Can anyone advise if the newly re-furbished WLG domestic lounge has a kids zone? If so, where is it situated?

Yes, it's called "outside the lounge" ;)

I think one of the best domestic lounges would be Dunedin. no seriously :)
It isn't as crowded as WLG or ALK, as a matter of fact, once i was there alone [well, it was an ATR flight..*shudders*] and always has fresh food out that you don't have to race to before it is all gone. Also there is a large selection of drinks in the fridge [including soft drinks], which i prefer to having on tap - you can take a bottle with you! [I also love the ice cream fridge tucked away in the corner, gotta love triple choc]
Also, it is before security and reasonably close to the gates, although you have to know where you are going to get there.
Nice and modern too, renovated just before the 'batch' theme came in so' none of the cane seats!!! Nice comfy armchairs and lots of tables, small workstation though.
I think one of the best things is the volley staff on desk, they actually seem to be doing things - not hanging around like 'flies on the wall' watching you put down your empty glass so they can swoop in and take it type that i have run into at some other KC that shall-not-be-mentioned *cough*ALK INT*cough*
NSN isn't that bad either, never run into the problem of not being able to take guests in, normally only 2 groups of people in there anyway - no hot food tho :(

I do find ALK INT. a bit of a joke, add 50% then maybe ill take it seriously. Couldn't find 3 seats together anywhere..

That's my long 10 cents anyway...:p

From another thread

DUD – WLG

Checkin

After my experience on the previous leg, I didn’t bother about the request for an exit row. The new system hasn’t been installed in DUD yet, and on checkin, I received 3A.

Koru Club

I had three hours to kill, and work to do. Those of you who frequent the DUD Koru Club will know what I mean when I say that I was delighted to see that the Number one Koru lady was on duty. I hadn’t seen her for some time, and it was terrific to catch up on some gossip.

Number one Koru lady has been looking after us for almost nine years when my company first started a long term project in Dunedin.

The DUD Koru Club is another of my favourites, and is excellent for a regional lounge. I did notice however that the selection of red wines and the standard was very ordinary (cost cutting?), but the hot snacks were up to their usual standard. The selection of magazines had expanded considerably.

And from the same thread

Wellington Koru Club.

Although still a work in progress, the upgrade to the lounge has produced an enormous improvement. The Koru man told me that there were an extra 140 seats and it seems to be much more spacious than the old one. The toilets have still to be completed, and some of the stand up tables were still being installed. A similar concept to the Melbourne lounge, and I was most impressed.

Wondering if I hshould/ can upgrade to premium econ? I have a *S upgrade.
Also, have a looooooong layover to get to Boston (arrive 2:30p leavel 11p). I'm assuming I can't use my koru lounge vouvher in LA? Even though I'm on a code share flight to Boston its UA metal. That likely is a deal killer?
Thanks

Welcome to Flyer Talk Libenitz :)

Assuming by *S upgrade you mean the complimentary upgrade voucher that Air NZ gives to its Silver members on (re)qualification then you can put in an upgrade request. Whether it will clear depends on loads - you'll be in the queue behind any golds or gold elites who have requested upgrades. You are flying on a Friday which normally have fuller aircraft than other weekdays (and more premium passengers), but on the day you may get lucky. [Note I haven't checked loads for 1 May.]

The NZ lounge at LAX is airside in terminal 2 but you will not have access without a sameday onward flight from terminal 2 (eg on Air Canada). On arrival you go directly to immigration. To get airside you need to pass through security where boarding passes are checked. The United flight leaves from a different terminal (either 6 or 7 or 8) at LAX - which is not connected.

Good point! I didn't think about the international gate issue, doubt it would've worked anyway. I have an 8.5 hour layover to connect with a red eye! I guess I'll see if a friend in the area can baby sit me. Just a little nervous with the swine flu. Gotta get a 100ml hand sanitizer bottle!

CHC International is my favorite ANZ lounge which I have visited to date...

CHC International is my favorite ANZ lounge which I have visited to date...I'm a big fan of the automated pancake machine in the MEL Lounge - the domestic lounges would be transformed by one of these.

I'm a big fan of NZ lounge in LAX! Far superior than the hub lounge in AKL!

I'm a big fan of the automated pancake machine in the MEL Lounge - the domestic lounges would be transformed by one of these.
I was in the MEL lounge a few weeks ago and was shocked to find some ghastly generic gin ( vickers ? , I think ) what the hell is the story with that ? I didnt notice the pancake machine , but I think that might have been because I was still in shock at the appearance of kmart gin in the lounge . Other than that I have to agree that it is a very good lounge

Gotta agree with Michael.

The lounge at LAX is great, especially when compared to the less than impressive LAX airport. Was there a couple of weeks ago and enjoyed a great selection of NZ and US beers, 42 below vodka and good food.

The contrast between "LAX" in general and the NZ lounge in particular really IS something isn't it? :D

...and the staff there have provided my two most memorable NZ "Wow, how's THAT for customer service" moments....^^ YMMV on that!

The NZ lounge is by far and away, the best lounge at LAX. I would say it's actually nicer than the International Lounge at AKL.

The contrast between "LAX" in general and the NZ lounge in particular really IS something isn't it? :D

...and the staff there have provided my two most memorable NZ "Wow, how's THAT for customer service" moments....^^ YMMV on that!

I also have to agree with the LAX lounge being outstanding. In Feb had the best wow moment out of any of the hundreds of flights I have done over the years :)

I also have to agree with the LAX lounge being outstanding. In Feb had the best wow moment out of any of the hundreds of flights I have done over the years :)

Does it still have Jaffas, Milk Bottles and Pineapple lumps?- Those and the great showers were the highlight when I last passed through.

I was in the MEL lounge a few weeks ago and was shocked to find some ghastly generic gin ( vickers ? , I think ) what the hell is the story with that ? I didnt notice the pancake machine , but I think that might have been because I was still in shock at the appearance of kmart gin in the lounge . Other than that I have to agree that it is a very good loungePerhaps this is a new low - I didn't think we could go below Captain Morgan Rum being served in C.

Zipping through AKL International tonight on SQ282. I see that they have started the remodeling work on the lounge. It's starting to look quite nice - more seating through into the old First Class lounge area, walls removed from the kitchen space to open it out. The 'terrace' area is closed at present though.

yikes - must be very crowded at early morning and evening peak hours

yikes - must be very crowded at early morning and evening peak hours
Yes, I think it would be. It was reasonably full last night at 2200, with only NZ89, NZ39, and SQ282 pax in the lounge. It emptied out after NZ39 started to board - only about 8 people left for SQ282.

The trick seems to be to go around into the old F lounge, there were spare seats there that people had missed.

There's now a TV lounge where the business centre was previously, and there were 2 PCs installed down the back of the lounge near the toilet area (old magazine rack, I think). I didn't look around for more PCs. Near the old massage/mobile-free area they're installing the long laptop bench tables. The massage area has moved around the corner into the FCL space; and there is also now a tall bar area where there once was a wall separating the mobile-free zone and the servery area.

It looks nice but obviously still a lot of work to be done.

Thanks ajnz - that will help me in a couple of days.

I will be there in 10 days time and will find out what the refurb will consist of and get a rough idea re - the completion date, from the staff.

It certainly is in need of a makeover.

KiwiFlyer If you find out anything can you let us know.

Cheers

Not sure if this has already been posted but the CHC domestic lounge is now catered by an external company (can't remember the name, Mai Tai or something like that) and was recently in there and the food offerings are much more extensive. Apparently the WLG domestic lounge is soon to get catered by this external company as well.

Yup big difference in catering between AKL & CHC domestic at the moment (CHC much better).

AKL international lounge refurbishment seems to be completed. I like what they have done - feels much more spacious and in similar style as the other lounges. However I sense there is no/little increase in seating. It's quiet at the moment, not sure how it would be in the evening rush.

A couple of minor criticisms - they still haven't fixed the problem of newspapers arriving too late for the early flights, and there is a major lack of bench space in the servery area (not even space to put your glass down to pour a drink). Surely they will need to rearrange to give some space.

Have they improved food and drink offerings?

.....the worst has got to be HNL! It is dated, super crowded (read - you need to stand up), the food selection is mediocre, but the staff there are great (as always with NZ staff).

Good news, kind of. During my last visit to HNL in June the lounge had improved a lot. Not because they had finally renovated, but because NZ was using the Qantas Club. The website was still showing the location of the old lounge while pax were directed to the QC/AC near gate 26.

Is this a temporary thing while the old lounge is being upgraded?

Thank goodness for the revamped Auckland International lounge. Not before time - it was so very tatty. No it's modern, clean and comfortable. I think the ANZ staff have reacted to the better conditions as they seemed more friendly and helpful when I visited on 2 August.

The catering staff seemed to circulate more frequently collecting used plates.

But the food - it's worse, I think. I did read that Sky City had taken over the catering and it doesn't seem to be a good move. Now there aren't even rolls to make a ham and cheese roll. Only bins of ordinary bread which used to be near the toaster. And no hot choices despite an early visit.

Still it's 10 steps forward for the comfort, but 3 steps back for the food.

Agreed the food and drink has been far worse in international terminal the past few months. I also don't like the complete lack of bench space in the servery.

I agree absolutely about the lack of space on the servery. It is totally inadequate. By way of comparison, the lounge at Melbourne is absolutely fantastic - I'm sure some improvements will be possible at Auckland.

Of course, the other things that haven't been upgraded are the toilets. Certainly the women's toilets are totally inadequate now for the numbers in the lounge at times.

Currently in AKL interantional lounge just about to fly out on NZ39.
First time I have seem revamped seating area and really like it.
Food is nothing short of appalling - some scraps of cheese a couple of slices of meat - bread, but no soup.
Just spoke to someone and will see if they bring out any different food after 9pm and report back.
Forrest Chardonnay is v drinkable in the meantime!

Having (at long last) been joined up to Koru Club by work, I notice the AirNZ website is very silent on what to expect food wise - I guess so they can't be challenged by lack of service.

If you cant get some decent food, it defeats one main reason for joining up.

Where do you mostly travel? Food in (domestic) koru lounges are good, except regional (although Queenstown is good the other regional lounges are not so good). Most international lounges are great - Auckland and Brisbane being key exceptions (oh and Nadi & Rarotonga aren't so good either).