MEL-AKL 18:55 737 flight, late Feb.
I've been pretty good at avoiding the 737s and 787 across the ditch the past year or so, but scheduling and short notice required both on my recent trip. Took the later evening flight over as it was cheaper and lightly loaded. Turned out to be a superb flight. Primarily because of Gabbie, the absolutely
outstanding J cabin attendant. Helpful, personable, efficient, tireless. Very good all round. The CSM was largely absent (spending a good hour in the coughpit) but the cabins were only half full so I guess she wasn't needed.
Gabbie took most orders before take-off - all 3 courses, meal drink preferences, and post-departure drink requests. Menu:
I requested the crab and then the pie, but asked if - after all orders were taken - there was any chance of swapping the crab for the Waldorf salad I'd prefer that. Gabbie indicated she'd see what she could do.
After drinks were served I heard the CSM discussing food options with the pilots on the intercom. At one point she asked Gabbie how many chicken salads she had left; she answered with 'one'. It was happily taken by the flight deck. A few minutes later Gabbie squatted down beside me and advised she had a Waldorf salad for me, but would I still like the crab too! Very nicely done.
Thoroughly enjoyed the salad. And the pie was good too. Usual OK cheese to finish (no pic).
Very nice flight, with shadow holding next to me. Service from Gabbie really the standout, with regular drink offers and constant glancing into the cabin to check on things. Best I could tell she sat for about 10 minutes before descent to eat.
Only fail was absence of an amenity kit (not loaded from what I could gather).