Sorry but I have to agree that you've been misinformed. After maybe 2 dozen phone calls within the past year to get my QF J reward tickets booked/changed/ticketed, I have come to learn that some representatives do not understand all the rules of the game. Mind you, they are VERY good and patient.. and VERY convincing. So convincing in fact that you can't argue with them about what other CSRs have told you previously.

That being said, the best way to prove that QF reward inventory is universal between them and all of their partners is using the QF reward search tools. If you are able to find a ticket using their tools on an 'eligable' flight (QF metal, transpacific, 2 max tasman crossings, etc), call up CO IMMEDIATELY (i can't stress this enough... as if your lottery ticket expires in 2 minutes sense of urgency) and reserving. If you see availability, CO will be able to book it. It's that simple. The CSR will be very happy that you have done the work for them in fact.

I can't stress this method enough.. as I have found J inventory that the CSR 'doesn't see' and have had to make them look more closely.. suddenly, the seats are visable on their screen too (i believe them.. i can only imagine what data is on their screen and how easy it is to overlook inventory stats)

Oh, and if you want to somehow 'sneak' in new zealand in your reward.. PM me. It's hell now that Jetstar is in the game unless you book your transpacific through Auckland. Getting to christchurch is basically impossible as there is only 1 eligable flight a day and you need it both ways via SYD for CO to be able to book. I have been misinformed by CSRs and messages on this board about being able to do an open jaw between auckland and christchurch to avoid the 2 tasman crossing limit on CO reward tickets. I guess their policy has changed. Basically, unless your transpacific flight flies into or out of Auckland, you cannot do it.