Looks like EK beat QR to the punch!! Yet more options, competition and capacity through AKL…

http://www.emirates.com/nz/English/a…200lr-aircraft

Interesting that they will be using 777-200LR equipment and the new service has an estimated flight time of just under 16 hours from DXB to New Zealand and 17 hours, 15 minutes in the other direction. This will make it one of their longest routes.

Eastbound – EK 448, depart DXB 10:05 and arrive in AKL 11:00+1
Westbound – EK 449, depart AKL 21:30 and arrive DXB 05:45+1