Cheapest way to get 500 miles?
I want to book Y and then upgrade to J between AKL and SYD to sample the A380 Biz. In a family member's account, I have 15,500 miles so I'm just 500 miles short of the upgrade. Due to the 2,000 miles minimum, transferring (50 USD) or buying miles (80 USD) would leave 1,500 miles orphaned since that account won't be used again. Just randomly staying at a Hotel to get the 500 miles will cost at least as much I suppose, plus some hotel chains require sign-ups and conversions etc. ...hassle.
Anyone got any comments what would be the cheapest and easiest way to get these 500 miles? Maybe on the Emirates High Street? Or does that not earn any miles? If relevant at all, I live in Hong Kong.
All shared opinions would be appreciated, including "for crying out loud, just pay the 50$ and give up 1,500 miles for 3hrs in A380 J", although that is not what I'm looking for. I just want to use the miles most efficiently.