My last trip Down Under, I used NZ via AKL. YVR-AKL-MEL is an easy connection and usually better priced than AC.
I'm not sure when you are planning on flying, but NZ will have their retrofitted 772s on that route shortly and it has a PE similar to AC's 787 PE. If Not, you can connect via LAX and definitely get the PE for the long segment.
Might not help the new minimum AC qualifying level though. depends on your alternate travelling.