+ 1

The fascination is indeed quite odd. Based on a fair few posts over the last couple of years, I sometimes think Emirates could provide a wooden crate to sit on in the cargo hold, along with a mechanism to funnel constant supplies of DP down a pipe throughout the flight - and for certain pax, all would be good. A much-overrated beverage IMHO.....

But my comment isn't really directed at BlackCat. Thanks for your balanced mini-review, and good to hear that overall you enjoyed your long trip with EK (a fairly quick turnaround judging from your dates ....?), albeit with certain caveats.

I think your negative points highlight why it's sensible to manage expectations ahead of a 'first-ever' flight with a new carrier. Disappointing to hear about your trans-Tasman sectors, although not hugely surprised because I have found that there can be something of a bus trip mood from crew on that short route, even up in the front.