Thanks WLG Base this isn't upgrade related it's just reserving my personal preference for seating on a slightly longer flight given there's only a few left. If it was wide open I wouldn't bother with this but it's Perth so bit longer. Even on short haul when PE hasn't been available I've used the SHRU to upgrade to J then swapped down to PE window. Got interrogated by the FA but I got my seat! Might omit the FA discussion if I run into the same situation next time and just tell them after I find someone to agree.

Thanks Thai-Kiwi Sounds like processes have improved for refunds. I'm not really concerned about the fare as I'm going to pay that regardless on the day of cash booking. Also sounds like I'll need to have Air NZ on the phone in case the seat doesn't drop back for immediate selection.

It's stupid but we all have our preferences and as long as it's within the boundaries of the system I'm good. Off to book the refurb Murphy's law says my date will change by a day