V-Flyer

Here is the TR for the above little Easter jaunt to Auckland for a look see. Wouldn't normally justify business for such a short flight but it was a snitch at $1100 return including limos (the cheapest Y I was quoted was $700).

Bit of an early start as car turned up bang on time at 0500 and we were at the check in desk some 20 mins later. Very friendly lady who chatted away while checking us in (she didn't actually that much to do as I had used the OLCi the day before). It turned out she needed clearance to release us as we are British! Lounge invites issued and off we set. Through immigration and security - they have just introduced the little polythene bag in Oz now - and I didn't realise I had a lip balm in my bag.

Arrived at the lounge and - as one does at 0530 - headed straight for the bubbly. Had a nice chat with the lounge manager - very nice lounge and he couldn't do enough. By the time the flight was called we had managed 4 glasses each.

Boarding was very straightforward - after the punters in the cheap seats were esconsed - we amble down and onto the A345. Drinks were offered and glady taken - more bubbles. Short flying time of 3.5 hours was announced and off we went. The ICE system was up and running when we boarded - couldn't really watch much due to the announcements but I was surprised it was on. The front view camera was selected so I could watch the take off from a different perspective.

We were served bruch I had some fresh fruit, fruit toast and a very nice chicken curry all washed down with some more bubbles. Was amazed at the choice on their ICE system - actually too much to chose from spent so long deciding we had virtually arrived before I had selected.
Only one minor gripe was the crew took a -seemingly - long time to answer the bells. Which I found more frustating after a visit to the conveniences and noticed there were 4 of them in the galley - and one was chatting to me while I waited.

After a too short flight we landed in Auckland - again front view camera superb. Off the plane and joined a massive queue in immigration we landed after an Eva flight. Very friendly official chatted away asked what we were going to be doing and when I said jumping off the harbour bridge - he seemed concerned but I reassured him we would attached to an elastic band.

Luggage was on carousel when we got there so straight out met the river and we were at the hotel in no time.

Overall EK put on a superb performance and am looking forward to the return leg (am actually sat in the lounge in AKL writing this) - and of course drinking bubbles.

Hope you enjoyed the read.

Rob - hic[}:)]