Thanks to everyone for the ideas - for sure, this is not my forte, so I appreciate the different options as well as the cautions.

I got agreement from my VP that I can fly business class - basically without (much) consideration to cost. Effectively, this allows me to book a "mainstream solution", rather than going through China, India, or using any or my own points.

Based on research that I've already done on my South Pacific vacation, I'm likely going to grab an Air New Zealand flight on business through SFO, or LAX. I'll look at AC as well - maybe even UA with their new Polaris class - unless that is at a significant premium. Now that I have many more options, I'll be spending some time trying to pick the nicest ride. If anyone has any suggestions other than what has been said - I thank you in advance for the ideas.