Agree entirely, kiwibigdave.
This is why I always fly Air NZ across the pacific (bad luck QF).

Being a bit over 6 foot, that extra leg-room is worth every $ and fewer pax is an advantage. As I posted in another thread, upgrades are easier and cost less airpoints or comp upgrades.

Slightly OT. On a work trip, sometimes the budget only allows for economy (if another company is paying). If I pay the upgrade to PE out of my own pocket, then the difference is a tax deduction, so essentially you are paying only 60-70% of the difference, depending on your tax bracket. (this should not be taken as tax advice !). Upgrades to business can stretch the personal budget for those flights across the pacific. Bottom line, it really isn't all that expensive in this context and 99% of my MEL-LAX and beyond flights are work related.
Another reason to fly PE (but not UA SYD-LAX which is not as good as Air NZ).