The Rock in Jumanji. Photo / Supplied
Maureen Marriner flies Auckland to Perth aboard Air New Zealand's NZ175.
The plane: Boeing 787-9.
Class: Economy.
Seat: 47e, in the middle of the centre three with husband on one side and, on the other, a woman on the first of four legs to Albania.
Fellow passengers: All ages, all types. Many went to sleep under their blankets. A bit odd as we left Auckland at 10.30am.
How full: A few empty places in our section.
Entertainment: Excellent selection. Where else would I watch 80s classic Working Girl (such shoulders) and The Rock in Jumanji (such shoulders) in the same session?
The service: It's part of the reason Air New Zealand wins awards.
Toilets: A seat lid that won't stay up is always a challenge.
Food and drink: Lunch early over the Tasman. Chicken or beef. Drinks offered after the food. Salad, icecream and cheese. Snack of panini and fruit over the Australian Bight. The gluten-free was reportedly fine, as was the gluten-full.
Luggage: We had cabin bags but checked them in for less hassle with overhead lockers.
Airport experience: Auckland is coming along nicely.
The bottom line: The seven and a half hours just flew.
When there's nothing as far as the eye can see, you may appreciate the company.