I've been very fortunate (perhaps) and have never had a bad experience with Air NZ. However, all my flights with them have been long haul (with the exception of one AKL-MEL return) and I'm almost always in BP.

I LOVE the friendliness/familarity of Air NZ staff. After 3 years of almost constantly flying Asian airlines (usually in Y), it's bliss to have crew who 1) speak native English, 2) have a sense of humour and 3) aren't so submissive that it makes me want to shake them.

The food (in BP/PE at least, no idea about Y sorry) is the best airline food I've experienced. Same for the wines. I particularly like the focus on NZ wines (and food, cheese especially) as it gives me the opportunity to try (good) wines I probably wouldn't come across otherwise. I liked the Urlar Pinot Noir 2012 so much on my last flight that I tracked down their only distributor in China and bought a case from them!

By contrast, I flew J with Emirates on the A380 two weeks ago and thought the wine selection offered was so dull (and it didn't pair at all well with the food on offer) that I just stuck to water with my dinner. The food was pretty grim but it always is with Emirates in J. I never really understand why as the Emirates lounges always have great food. Very weird. Cathay serve better food in Y than Emirates do in J!!!

On my way back, I flew F with Emirates and finally the food was not only decent but actually good! By good I mean on a par with Air NZ BP food. However, I was so rushed through my meal (total opposite of my NZ experiences) that I literally didn't finish any of my dishes before they were whisked away. I thought the F means First but perhaps it's actually Fast!!

I think it's a great compliment to Air NZ that it takes flying Emirates First Class to match Air NZ's long haul BP food, drink and staff. Okay Air NZ's IFE is dated and the aircraft interiors a bit worn but that's still pretty good. And a lot cheaper!

I do agree that the Auckland lounge isn't that great. Although I was pleasantly surprised by the shower facilities last time I was there. Much nicer than I was expecting. For a flagship lounge though, in terms of food/drink/ambiance I'd expect a bit more. But it could be a lot worse!

My fantasy combination is an Emirates A380 First Class Suite but with Air NZ staff, food and wine. Not too much to ask surely?!