Sorry to drag this up again, but I have been in contact with [email protected], the contact listed on the NZ web site.

I asked:

I will be arriving in SYD from SFO on UA 863 and transiting
to take UA 840 to MEL, all in First Class. I'd like to use the NZ
First Class lounge while in transit in SYD. Will it be open as early
as 6 am when my flight from SFO arrives? Does it have showers?

Thanks in advance for your reply.

And they replied:

Dear fjgolder,

If you are a Star Alliance Gold member you can access the First class
lounge, however if you are unsure please advise us of your frequent flyer
number and we will do a check on our side.
The First class Lounge does have showers and will be open when you arrive in
Sydney (6.00am).

We hope this is of assistance.

Kind regards

Air New Zealand Online Support
(RL)


So, now I am confused. Do I have access with a UA F class boarding pass or not?