Check in at Terminal 3 was fairly painless a big difference to Virgin/BA whose check in can get so congested in the early evening. Security seems to have sorted itself out so was airside in good time.
After the usual shopping I made my way to the gate and walked straight on with priority boarding. The main area for Pacific Premium economy is on the upper deck and as I had never flown upstairs before I decided to try it out.
Business and Pacific economy share the Upper Deck and its quite open with no curtain. Pre take off drinks were offered and we left a little late due to air traffic control. I had a spare seat and the legroom was fantastic in seat 22J and very private.
After take off I was surprised to see that Premium economy is given a near identical service to business. It seemed the only difference is the seat.
Noise reduction head phones are provided and the blankets are fleece type material
Drinks and food were served on China with cutlery and course by course. I had the chicken, which was very good it is far superior than both Virgin and BA at premium economy. The in flight entertainment is video on demand which a great selection of new and classics. After watching a few films I slept well for several hours.
With a few hours to go we were served an excellent breakfast of omelette, croissants etc again the same as Business class.
Very quick to leave the plane on arrival in Hong Kong. Air New Zealand provides an excellent service in Premium economy. Far superior to BA WT and I expect Virgin from what Ive read although I havent tried the new version as yet. The cabin crew couldnt be more helpful and dealt with a troublesome passenger in business very well.
The seat was good although it did feel a bit hard, but using cushions and a blanket it was soon sorted out.
Air New Zealand seem to have raised the stakes in premium economy and I hope the others follow as its great for those who dont use business, but want more than economy especially on business trips.
