Originally Posted by
MartiniMan
Looking on ANA for sample flights (checking Dec 2012), it seems flying from SFO or LAX to AKL direct is almost impossible to get reward tickets for.
The 2 weeks or so before xmas are very much peak season to NZ and you will find it hard to get reward tickets. However, if you're willing to fly on/after the 23rd or so you'll probably find a few J seats open up eventually.