As a current (though not much longer) Honolulu resident, I've found that NW isn't all that bad (despite the complaints made by some folks on the boards).

I've been upgraded to the front cabin on numerous occasions (to Asia and the mainland), usually without using miles or certificates, and don't find the service all that bad. The NW staff at HNL seem pretty helpful in tweaking flights, etc, to provide the best possible experience (and I'm currently just a silver elite...though closing in on gold).

It IS tough to get free WBC seats to asia (at least beyond NRT), but I've had fairly good luck using miles to upgrade....or as I mentioned, getting upgraded on my good looks and winning personality. Just my humble opinion.