Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: Catania, Sicily(CTA)/South Jersey (PHL)/Houston(IAH)/Red Stick, La.(BTR)/airborne in-between
Programs: United Plat (1MM), AA ExecPlat, ITA/AZ Freccia, Hilton Diam, Bonvoy Gold, Hertz Prez, IHG gold
Posts: 3,860
I have flown AC transpac but it was in the before times, and UA and NZ several times including more recently.
Frankly I would pick Air New Zealand first, then UA then AC. YMMV. As a GS UA does tend to go the extra mile when I am on their flights vs other star carriers when there are irrops for example or other challanges. Obviously your travel needs and focus could be different that is just my preference.
I do the Auckland-Houston flight somewhat often and enjoy NZ biz class. I'd suggest Auckland Houston Toronto or other Auckland USA CAN flights on NZ if you want to stick with Star Alliance.