drtravels, yes it is always a problem when flights are cancelled due to operational changes. Air New Zealand has an obligation (a contract) to get you to LAX in a reasonable manner and time. Sometimes endorsing the ticket to another airline is a good option due to operational changes (regardless of fare basis restrictions). Unfortunately, your route is not a very busy one especially since the coup! This as you know restricts your options. But you do have one option. Have your ticket endorsed to Air Pacific and United Airlines.

Have your ticket endorsed to Air Pacific FJ411 to Auckland (7:40am dep, 10:50am arr.)
Air New Zealand NZ2 has a flight from AKL (8:30 PM dep, 1:30pm arr)BUT DO NOT accept this flight. Insist on being endorsed to United Airlines Metal UA 842(NZ codeshare 4842 /1:30Pm dep, 6:20am arr in LAX ). This will save you a long wait in Auckland and get you into LAX 7 hours earlier.

Good luck on the upgrade, it does happen sometimes but do not wish too hard. If you paid for the air ticket with your credit card (especially a gold or platinum card) then you may be able to claim any your dinner etcetera. Depends on how long the delay is from the original departure time as outlined on your ticket.

Good Luck
Dave

[This message has been edited by davistev (edited 07-06-2000).]