From an email received from Air NZ just now:
Effective immediately, Elite and Gold Airpoints members, when travelling on an Air New Zealand flight number operated by Virgin Atlantic between Los Angeles or San Francisco and London Heathrow, will enjoy the following benefits:
- Priority check-in and baggage (including an extra additional checked in bag).
- Lounge access when departing San Francisco, Los Angeles or London (Heathrow).
For full information, please click on the link below.
Virgin Atlantic - Co-operation Partners | Air New Zealand
Also, another mention of a new tier:
Over the coming 12 months Airpoints members will have more earning power with more partners, more rewards and a new tier, further enhancing the value of the programme. The refreshed benefits and the new tier will be announced next year – introducing new benefits for Air New Zealand’s most loyal customers.