Originally Posted by
nzkarit
You are on a QF ticket. You aren't an AirNZ frequent flyer at that point.
The point of status is to encourage to book on their ticket stock & flights. Defeats the purpose of giving people status if they are going to fly on other airlines.
Leaving aside the revenue that Air New Zealand generate from actually operating the flight, there is the matter of the airline's own choice of wording:
airnewzealand.co.nz/elite-benefits
Elite members may access Air New Zealand, Star Alliance and partner airline lounges prior to departure on an Air New Zealand or Star Alliance operated flight along with our eligible partner flights.
As an Elite member, when travelling on an Air New Zealand flight, you may invite up to three guests to join you in Air New Zealand International and Domestic Lounges (travelling on the same service and subject to space) and one guest in Air New Zealand Regional Lounges, Partner Lounges and Star Alliance Lounges.