Originally Posted by
Fast6
OP, I think you're perhaps suffering from analysis paralysis.
The convenience of nonstop is huge, and even in Economy, Air New Zealand always provides a great experience. If you've got extra $, whether for Skycouch or PE, it'll only be better.
I'm a different voice on Skycouch, as I have flown it with another normal-sized consenting adult, and we didn't hate it. In fact, it bridges the $ gap nicely between Y and PE.
I agree with this analysis, although I prefer PE to skycouch. The timing of the flights (great for not wasting a day, and arriving at normal times in each city) make the YVR-AKL flight with NZ so much better an option than anything with a change.