Flowing bubbles, French food
Air Tahiti Nui’s Poerava business class service from Auckland to Papeete makes the near five-hour flight whiz by like a dream, says Kelly Dennett.
The airline
Air Tahiti Nui.
The route
Auckland to Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia.
The plane
Airbus A343 Jet.
TIme in the air
The scheduled flight is four hours and 50 minutes, though tail winds shortened that duration by some minutes on my flight.
The loyalty plan
Club Tiare programme.
Up the back or at the pointy end
It can’t get more first-class than row one, and a seat by the window to boot.
The seat stuff
Very spacious and came with a blanket, eye mask, and socks. I’m told this is one of the older planes so the seats are not new but they are comfortable, and come with their own entertainment sets.
Baggage allowance
Two pieces, up to 32kg each, for business class.
Comfort factor
I figured with an early evening flight and a short flight time, there would be no need for me to lie about. But I did, and it was fantastic. The seat almost fully reclines, and it’s roomy enough to cross my legs while sitting upright and watching TV.
That’s entertainment
Sixteen movies, 40 music albums, 15 video games, and dedicated television and documentary channels. Even more fabulous- there was a digital magazine collection.
The service
Fantastic. Boarding was obviously quick, the bubbles were flowing within minutes and food and top-ups were fast and frequent. The staff were relaxed and helpful.
Feeding time
The meals have a strong French influence. A smoked salmon starter went down a treat with the bubbles. That was quickly followed by roast chicken and steamed vegetables, potato croquette, more smoked salmon, prawns, salad, cheesecake, and my personal favourite – cheese and crackers with quince paste. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
The verdict
Being able to lie back and snooze between bubbles, food, and reading my book was nothing short of wonderful. I arrived in Tahiti relaxed and ready for my next adventure, instead of tired and irritated.
Frequency
Air Tahiti Nui flies between Papeete and Auckland three times a week, it code shares with Air New Zealand for a further two flights. See airtahitinui.co.nz.
The bubbles were flowing within minutes and food and top-ups were fast and frequent.