Thanks for the info. If I go with the QF flight, yes, it would be part of an international ticket to AKL or SYD, so I would be able to take it and get off and continue the next day.
Phone calls to QF seem to be shaky on the subject. I have to weigh the benefit of a cramped BDL-LAX nonstop (even if F), or risk a connection at JFK on an unreliable Eagle fight (2 hour layover) and fly the QF 744 with the possibility of a customs clearance. I forgot that Tower used the Bradley terminal, so it looks as if QF would use the separate baggage claim for "local" pax.
Thanks!
Mike