Originally Posted by
sbiddle
This is incorrect.
You get NZ earn on NZ or UA metal but it has to be on a NZ flight number. As you flew on a UA ticket on a UA flight number you earn the partner earn.
It's all explained very clearly on the NZ site -
https://www.airnewzealand.co.nz/star-alliance-united
Actually, it's explained as clear as mud.
As an Airpoints™ member, if you fly on either an Air New Zealand flight number (beginning with NZ) operated by United, or an Air New Zealand operated flight between Auckland and San Francisco, you will earn the same rate of Airpoints Dollars and Status Points. Please check the Air New Zealand tab at our earn rates look-up table.
This to me implies that LondonPhoenixUfc is correct, and you will earn at NZ rates on any flight to SFO as it doesn't make the distinction for the Air New Zealand operated flights based on marketing carrier that it does for United operated flights.