Is your wife also your elite partner?

I'm pretty certain that gifted RUs will not clear until at least T-7, gifted RUs are not subject to clearing if R class is available at booking, again not 100% but pretty sure. So in all likelihood you'd be waiting until ateast T-7 and will be assessed at Gold or Elite partner status

Edit: just saw someone post this indicating the RU will be assessed at Elite as you are travelling together, if not travelling together then would be at the giftees status

"An exclusive benefit available to Elite members is the ability to gift Recognition Upgrades or Elite Airpoints Dollar upgrades to other Airpoints members who are on your gifting register. When you gift an upgrade and are travelling with your giftee, the upgrade request will be considered at Elite tier status level for yourself and one travelling companion.....