Can you redeem Velocity points on NZ to LAX?

[smit0847]

I know when searching for award flights from Australia to LAX the website will naturally show you the direct flights on VA and DL but can you book NZ via AKL? Is this only possible through the call centre?

 

[Fruitcake]

I know when searching for award flights from Australia to LAX the website will naturally show you the direct flights on VA and DL but can you book NZ via AKL? Is this only possible through the call centre?

Correct, Velocity points can be redeemed for NZ long haul but you need to call (only EY, DL and VA awards can be booked online). However the points tables are published so you'll have a reasonable idea of what you're up for:
Points Tables | Velocity Frequent Flyer

Note that they are a fair bit more expensive than similar length redemptions on EY.

One thing I've noticed is that there is no Y+ redemption rate for NZ long haul. I'm not sure if this is an oversight in the tables on the website or whether velocity points cannot be redeemed for Y+ seats on NZ.

 

[smit0847]

Ahh excellent - thanks Fruitcake. Exactly the answer I was looking for.

I was interested in trying VA J MEL to LAX and NZ J back LAX-AKL-MEL but considering it's 30 - 40% more points and a stopover in NZ I think I'll just do VA both ways.

Weird NZ charges so much more for long-haul partner redemptions - they're not really a world-class airline like SQ....

With those different points tables EY J is looking like an excellent use of points.

 

[Fruitcake]

Weird NZ charges so much more for long-haul partner redemptions - they're not really a world-class airline like SQ....

Check the SQ redemption tables - anything where the best standard of product is offered the points cost is more than double EY J :shock:.