First or business?

[STAH]

Guys,

We will be travelling to New Zealand in the next few years. I have been saving for some time to ensure that we can get a decent flight. Is it really worth the additional money to travel first class, or is business class just as comfortable? I have been fortunate enough to travel in business on a few occassions, but never ventured into first.

Please let me know what you think and any past experiences that you may have had.

Cheers.

[Dassie]

It depends a lot on the aircraft your on but personally I think business class will be good enough and I don't think first is worth that extra premium. To me legroom is all important and not having to climb over the next door person. I nearly always travel long distance with KLM and their business class is really good.

[dzug]

Can't answer your question directly - it does depend on your own values and philosophy.

Maybe it's worth thinking what you would spend the extra money on if you didn't blow it on an upgraded ticket. If the answer is nothing much or don't know, then upgrade.

For my own part, I'd probably take the cheaper option and have another two weeks in NZ, or a separate holiday somewhere else at another time. But you may prefer the other option of fewer or shorter but better holidays.

NZ is worth it BTW - even in cattle class.

[sense4all]

I have flown first quite a few times on long haul ( but not to NZ) I would say that it would be a good decision to opt for Business. First is very nice, but not necessary - I would be perfectly happy with a shorter loo queue and bigger seat and legroom that business has to offer without breaking the bank!
I did travel in the 'back' to NZ via Singapore and it was tolerable but definately not enjoyable.

[Trotbot]

I would pay a Business class fare for a top quality seat (BA, Qantas, Emirates) or close (Cathay, Singapore). The nightmare is if you book on a middling airline (eg Thai) and get an old plane then business class if woeful. It's ok on the newly refurbished planes

Booking in advance makes a big difference to prices - business travellers tend to book late and pay much more as a result.

Think about premium economy and spend the savings on a five star hotel for the night and a blow out meal with fine wines (or whatever luxury you want - 3 days exclusive fly fishing?). You will remember it longer than getting to NZ, which is a long way whatever class you are in.

It is rarely worth paying your own money for First, unless you have so much as to not notice it. Having said that, I am still delighted to get an upgrade or have the firm pay when business is full.

[mash]

Personally business would do. It has lots of room and good meals so there the extra in first doesn't justify the extra money. Agree with Trotbot, best bet is to use a good airline.

[STAH]

Guys,

Thanks so much for this. I think I will be opting for Raffles Class in Singapore Airlines.

We flew to New Zealand last year (at the back), and we were fortunate enough to get emergency exit seats all the way there and back. And dzug, I would quite agree with you - NZ is wonderful hence the return trip!

You have certainly made my mind up for me!

Thanks once again for your honest informed answers!

Scott