The couple have been moved to Economy and the airline says it will refund the difference between the originally purchased cabin and the equivalent Economy fare.
‘‘As compensation in lieu of the last-minute inconvenience caused, you are also entitled to $350.’'
The passenger said he and his wife had thought the Premium Economy seats would be a pleasant way to start the holiday before their grandchildren fly to join them.
‘‘It’s not to be,’' he said.
The airline’s 14 Dreamliners come in two layouts; one with 18 Business and 21 Premium Economy seats. Its version two planes have 27 Business and 33 Premium Economy seats.
Air New Zealand has been contacted for comment about what led to the aircraft switch.
Grant Bradley has been working at the Herald since 1993. He is the Business Herald’s deputy editor and covers aviation and tourism.