DUNEDIN to MELBOURNE (DUD-MEL) on Air New Zealand A320 in economy class with space+

There was no one manning check in so I popped back upstairs to the lounge, where I caught up on some messages.

I later left my carry-on in the lounge and went downstairs to check in. This was done quickly and I soon had 2 more boarding passes. Back up to the lounge for a quick drink before boarding was called. The call was made late, to allow the queues at security and immigration to clear. First I had a short detour to pay the NZ$25 departure fee at the bank (counter opens 90 minutes before departure).

Next stop to get the stamp on the departure fee sticker () then security, then immigration. A couple of questions about why such a short trip before the penny drops with the officer that she's processed me before. At the holding pen I realise I needn't have rushed. There is no sign that boarding is imminent other than that all passengers are at the gate.

About a quarter of an hour later we board. Grrr, loss of drinking (I mean lounge) time.

The load is higher than I expected given there were still rather cheap seats available for sale just this morning. Indeed no empty middle seat for me, although there are several scattered throughout the space+ zone.