Originally Posted by
cavemanzk
If you you check-in online you can skip check-in an head straight upstairs to customs/security then to the Lounge.
If your on an NZ/AU/CA/US/UK passport - you can also use the Smart-Gates for your departure to jump the lines at Customs.
An advantage of desk check in though is getting the express sticker (for platinum parsonstrish) on BP so you can short cut security if long lines. Smart gate is great but security .... Depends.