The seat
Premium economy standards vary so wildly among airlines that you never know what you are going to end up with. Sometimes it’s something verging on the luxurious, ranging to something almost indistinguishable from economy. Air New Zealand’s premium economy seats are among the best I’ve experienced with a pitch of 41 to 42 inches (104 to 108cm) and a width of 19.3 inches (49cm). Seats are arranged in a two-three-two formation, and I’m sitting in the middle section. Luckily, the middle seat remains empty, giving an even greater sense of space. When it comes time to rest, the roomy seats and full-sized pillows are very comfortable.
Entertainment + tech
The solid entertainment selection includes Hollywood and foreign films as well as TV box sets. Dedicated New Zealand content ranges from feature films to Maori-themed documentaries, cooking shows and episodes of Flight of the Conchords. The only downside is the lack of Wi-Fi – particularly disappointing given that free Wi-Fi is available when flying between Sydney and Auckland.
Service
Service in the premium economy cabin was outstanding.
Plenty of airlines offer good service, but I’ve never flown with a crew who seemed to enjoy their job this much. Rather than just responding promptly to requests, which is impressive enough, they are constantly checking in on their guests and asking if there is anything they need. Even during the hours when the cabin is dark and most passengers are asleep, the attendants patrol the aisles.
Loading
Food + drink
Dinner is served shortly after we leave Auckland. The starter, a tasting plate of tabbouleh, beetroot hummus, dolmades and artichoke, is a little underwhelming but my chosen main, roast chicken breast with saffron sauce, fresh thyme mash, green beans and caramelised shallots, is excellent. As I work through the night, an attendant asks if I’d like a snack of a New York-style hot dog with pickles and onions, which I enjoy. That allows me to skip breakfast, a choice between corned beef hash and waffles with apple, chia and blueberry compote.
Carbon emissions
Calculated at 1.073 tonnes for premium economy. The airline offers an offset program and has committed to net zero emissions by 2050.
One more thing
On a flight exceeding 16 hours, why doesn’t the amenities kit include an eye mask?
The price
Fares from about $4400 from Sydney to New York via Auckland return, premium economy*.
Loading
The verdict
Nothing short of outstanding.
Our rating out of five
★★★★★
The writer flew as a guest of Air New Zealand, see airnewzealand.co.nz
*Fares are based on those available for travel three months from the time of publication and subject to change.