skicowboys a warm welcome to the QR forum. Do have a look around. You will find that the dashboard will help you find much information rather quickly.

With regard to your questions:-
1) The first row of almost every QR cabin is where the bassinet seats are and the entire row is blocked (not reservable). They are usually released for use when airport check-in opens. On very, very rare occasions prior to that. It is up to the origin QR office to release seats.

2) API information will not be requested if it is not needed or is already in the system. On the MMB pages there is a discreet button to input API information. In some circumstances it is in the menu of the 'Change passenger details' button. It will only appear if needed.

3) QR has Dine on demand. Before take off the cabin crew assigned to you will introduce themselves to you an ask for your choice of food and when you want it served. If you only want to eat once on the flight or you want to eat every three hours is up to you. You can basically eat what you want when you want.

4) The new Business seat is to be launched on 8th. March and there will go several months before it begins to appear on flights. The 773s are to be retrofitted first at the rate of two or three per month. So there is a very, very slight chance you may get the new seat on your 773 flight.

5) QR have not announced which lounge they will use in AKL but using https://www.oneworld.com/ffp/lounge-access for AKL you may choose from them as per OW rules.

Sit back, relax and enjoy your trip with its excellent service.