If you’re planning a grand European holiday, Cathay Pacific has been busy spreading its wings across the continent this year. I’ve long been a fan of the award-winning Hong Kong-based carrier, who have just added Munich and Brussels to their extensive European network. Alongside these recent additions, the airline flies direct from Hong Kong to London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Manchester, Milan, Paris, Zurich, Madrid and Barcelona, with well-timed connections for New Zealand services. 

Connecting Kiwis to Hong Kong and beyond for over 40 years, Cathay Pacific’s extensive year-round Auckland services will be complemented with the resumption of seasonal summer services between Christchurch and Hong Kong, from December. Blending the best of cutting-edge entertainment technology and cabin design, I’m a big fan of the Airbus A350-900 and A350-1000.  

Cathay Pacific was the first carrier to bring these aircraft models to New Zealand, who proudly operate one of the youngest fleets in the world. Technologically advanced, the A350 aircraft feature a range of comfort-focused innovations which reduce noise levels and lower the effective cruising cabin altitude, which is a big boost to well-being, helping to mitigate passenger fatigue.  

They’re remarkably fuel-efficient too, treading softer on the environment. But it’s the whisper-quiet ambience and LED mood lighting that is particularly impressive, delivering such a calm cabin experience. Wi-Fi is available on board across all classes, so you can surf the internet, sort your emails, and stay connected on social media. The next-generation HD personal entertainment system, boasting Asia-Pacific’s most extensive entertainment library in the air, from the latest Hollywood releases and HBO Max to live satellite TV news channels including CNN and the BBC. 

Premium Economy continues to prove to exceptionally popular with Kiwis flying long-haul. Cathay’s offering is an excellent mid-range option, where you’ll enjoy a generous seat recline, expanded legroom and a supported head rest. Full-length calf rests and leather-padded footrests accentuate the comfort. An award-winning selection of wines and beverages are on-hand to complement your meal.  Accompaniments include larger pillows, softer blankets, a Bamford amenity kit, welcome drinks, complimentary water bottle and an enticing array of entrees and snacks. In Premium Economy, enjoy double the checked baggage allowance – 2 pieces of up to 23kg per bag. 

If you’re up at the pointy end, the A350’s Business Class offering includes enhanced frills such as fully-flat beds which are three inches longer than their predecessors, plus extra stowage space within easy reach. I enjoyed ample sleep time, thanks to the indulgent comfort lying fully flat, nestled in luxurious 400-thread-count Bamford bedlinen.  

My ‘bedtime pack’ featured a padded seat mattress, Bamford duvet, super plump pillow and slippers. The shell design of the Business seats accentuates the sense of space, privacy and peace.  Bamford goodies also filled the amenity bags, including face mist, eye shades, hand moisturiser, lip balm, toothbrush, paste and mouthwash. 

Progressively being rolled-out on long-haul services, the new Aria Suites business class product is a major advance for Cathay. I was lucky enough to experience the new product on my return flight from London on a Boeing 777. Artfully designed, privacy is to the fore with a sleek wrap-around seat design, suite door and sliding partition. The spacious life-flat beds feature premium leather headrests and ethically sourced wool.  

I slept like a lamb. If you’d rather stay awake, movie night in the skies is immersive, with a 24-inch 4K personal screen, with Bluetooth audio streaming. Everything is at your fingertips with enhanced touchscreen sensitivity for fast, precise navigation. You can even check which lavatories are free onscreen before leaving your seat! There’s so many thoughtful touches like wireless charging and intuitively designed storage spaces. 

Cathay’s contemporary Business menu showcases bold international flavours, classic Hong Kong favourites and light, healthy options, complemented with fine wines, champagnes, premium spirits and their handcrafted pale ale, Betsy beer. I generally avoid alcohol on flights, so I’d definitely recommend their Cathay Delight mocktail - a deliciously reviving blend of kiwi fruit, coconut milk and fresh mint. 

From refreshing breakfasts and sophisticated dinners to cheeky midnight snacks, you can expect around-the-clock, high-end restaurant standard dining. Cathay Pacific is currently collaborating with two Michelin-starred restaurants. Louise excels in refined and reimagined French cuisine, while Duddell’s is a renowned Michelin-rated Hong Kong venue showcasing curated homestyle dishes for flights out of Hong Kong.  

For dinner, I feasted on the most succulent sweet and sour braised pork ribs with hawthorn sauce and green apples. Sometimes, you just need a burger! In the middle of the night, somewhere over Kazakhstan, I was feeling peckish so ordered up their classic beef burger. It was the first time I have ever tried a burger at 35,000 feet – and it was remarkably tasty. Book-ended in a brioche bun, the combination of bacon, tomato, pickled onions, cheese and zucchini, hit the spot with precision. Another highlight was the lavish full English breakfast – the best I’ve experienced in-flight. 

With three Business Class lounges on offer at Hong Kong Airport, The Pier is Cathay Pacific’s largest airport lounge, inspired by Hong Kong’s indelible experiences. Feast on the city’s flavours and expansive home comforts at your leisure, from the delightfully elegant Teahouse to the wildly popular Noodle Bar. I also loved the deli-style Food Hall, brimming with quick bites like tapas, cheese boards, salads and fish platters. For best fares and seats to suit, head to www.cathaypacific.com/nz 

Mike Yardley is Newstalk ZB’s resident traveller and can be heard every week at  11.20am on Saturday Mornings with Jack Tame.