My fiancee and I just bought tickets to New Zealand for our honeymoon this fall. We found premium economy tickets on VA metal marketed by Delta which were very affordable (cheaper than directly from VA). My question now is, being completely foreign to the airline, how do I maximize my experience?

I'm a delta PM, and were flying delta metal to LAX, staying the night, flying VA to Brisbane, staying the night, then flying VA to Christchurch. The return is via SYD and all in one shot. What benefits do I garner from VA? Are there lounge opportunities at LAX, BNE, or SYD? I know there's something about domestic vs international terminal, bit I couldn't find a clear answer.

I'm pretty sure we'll have to pick up bags at LAX and BNE, any tricks of the trade to not lug them for a short stopover? Finally, looking for suggestions for an evening in Brisbane. Thanks!