I still don't know how some can succeed doing OLCI with VAd leading to VAi or NZ connection though.
With QF and EK, yes, you or I or anyone can do OLCI and then show passport for validation at airport, but with VA?
On separate PNR, ADL to SYD with VA, and no tie to that next NZ flight, (I wanted to get a 15.30 (pm) wide bodied a few months ago, but NZ then changed it to a narrow 320-I couldn't lose the flight fare and hotel, so had to take it), I was able to do OLCI with VA and then turn up at the NZ counter at (is it check in zone G) and had my passport validated then).
OP, count on 2 hours.
So let me get this right, you are flying early am (SYD - BNE VA) not linked to the next set of flights,, then (BNE - SYD - AKL VA flight first, then onto NZ flight)? Wow, well to each their own, you will be getting a lot of VA FF points and VA SC.