Another FAQ, I suppose, but it's hard to ask the computer the right question so I'll ask the humans again:

Based near LAX, we've learned that it makes sense to start OWE's (at least in the premium cabins) in Canada, thanks to the good folks here.

NZ might make good sense, too. But what's the best way to get there? We don't have a lot of date flexibility, and I'd be drawn and quartered if the group had to do a long-haul (e.g. LAX-AKL) in anything less than a first-class bed).

We have a reasonable supply of AAdvantage miles but don't directly have anything on Qantas. I assume the choice is between buying a cheap ticket on QF and upgrading with AA miles, or just using a first-class award?