Cathay Pacific Business Class Auckland to Hong Kong Review - Flight CX 198

We review Cathay Pacific's Business Class on the Auckland to Hong Kong route, covering insights on seating, amenities, dining, and the overall flight experience.

Updated 21 June 2025

Our View:

Cathay Pacific's A350-900 Business Class is a great way to get to and from Hong Kong, with spacious aisle or window seats, an extensive inflight entertainment library, a delightful and efficient lunch and dinner service, a long wine list, and an overall great cabin environment.
The Auckland to Hong Kong departure timing is perfect - around 1 p.m., making for a long day/night with convenient connections to Asia, India and Europe, arriving the next morning (where schedules permit).
You can download a sample menu and cellar list from June 2025 - all dining is delivered at set times.
An A350-900 seat map is available via SeatGuru, and helps explain the different options.
Cathay Pacific won World’s Best Economy Class 2025 and World’s Best Inflight Entertainment 2025 from Skytrax. While we can't verify their awards process, the results indicate the high standards of Cathay Pacific as a five-star airline.

Overview of Cathay Pacific's Auckland to Hong Kong flight:

CX198 departs daily from Auckland to Hong Kong, taking around 11 hours, leaving at around 1pm and arriving in Hong Kong at around 9:30pm local time.
Cathay Pacific offers 38 business class seats. Return fares to Europe start at around $9,000, while destinations in China start from around $3,500. One-way fares from Auckland to London start at around $4,800. You can see the current pricing under the offers section on the Cathay Pacific website.
Cathay Pacific offers year-round daily services to Auckland, and we argue that the business class experience is top-tier, alongside Singapore Airlines, for getting to and from Asia. Air New Zealand works with Cathay Pacific on the Hong Kong route, but we argue that the Cathay seat and entertainment options are far superior to that offered by Air New Zealand.

In this review, we outline the Cathay Pacific experience, from check-in at Auckland airport to the local Auckland business class lounge (Air New Zealand Lounge), boarding, business class cabin and seats, business class amenities, entertainment and Wi-Fi, and landing and connecting in Hong Kong. The flight details are as follows:

Flight: CX 198
From: Auckland to Hong Kong
Cabin: Business
Date: June 2024
Aircraft: A350-900

Our review covers:

Disclaimer - Flight Reviews:

At MoneyHub, we pride ourselves on delivering objective, data-driven insights based on thorough research and factual information. While our reviews strive to be as comprehensive and impartial as possible, it's important to note that this airline review is qualitative and based on personal experience. It includes subjective opinions that reflect the individual reviewer's perspective.
We understand that personal experiences with airlines can vary widely due to numerous factors such as flight route, crew service, and specific travel conditions. These variables can present challenges in providing a uniformly applicable review. To mitigate these challenges, we ensure our reviewers have a broad range of experiences and cross-reference our findings with multiple sources.
Additionally, we encourage readers to consider multiple reviews and sources to form a well-rounded view. We aim to provide honest, transparent, helpful information to guide travel decisions. By acknowledging the inherent subjectivity in qualitative reviews, we strive to offer balanced and reliable insights.

MoneyHub Founder Christopher Walsh Shares his views on Cathay Pacific:

"As a frequent traveller and a fan of Cathay Pacific, one of the standout features is the comfortable seating, friendly crews, endless entertainment, ease of connecting in Hong Kong and the signature Cathay Pacific lounges. I also fly business class with other airlines - Cathay Pacific is reliable, easy and high quality, especially if you're connecting to/from London where there are 5+ flights a day serving Heathrow.

I attend numerous conferences and events across Europe annually, and Cathay Pacific is a preferred option (alongside Qatar Airways) given the schedules perfectly suit my travel needs. The flights from Auckland to Hong Kong are timed to provide seamless connections to Europe, with arrivals around 7am in Europe and departures (in London) at around 7-10pm, ensuring convenient layovers. The connections via Hong Kong are efficient, with usually 1-4 hours of transit time, and the flights are scheduled to arrive in Auckland around 11am, making the overall journey as smooth as possible.

The seats are spacious, the crews are highly engaged and the experience makes long-haul flights enjoyable.

I've been asked by some New Zealanders about what they should do with their "Cathay points". If you like to keep things simple, Air New Zealand confirms that "Airpoints members can earn Airpoints Dollars when travelling on flights booked with an NZ or CX flight number between New Zealand and Hong Kong only". Air New Zealand will credit 90 Airpoints Dollars each way for Auckland to Hong Kong flown on Cathay Pacific per its calculator. While you won't earn Airpoints Dollars for any other Cathay Pacific other than to/from Auckland, 180 Airpoints Dollars is useful as a reward and convenient with Airpoints so you don't need to join any other program. You can also credit all Cathay Pacific business class flights to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program.

Overall, Cathay Pacific is a go-to choice for seasoned travellers. It offers a strong business class product that stands out for its comfort, entertainment, lounge choice, transit comfort and free WIFI. For anyone travelling to Europe, Asia or just to Hong Kong, it offers a comfortable flying experience".

Christopher Walsh
MoneyHub Founder

Cathay Pacific Business Class Auckland to Hong Kong Review - Flight CX 198 A350-900

Check-in, Lounge, Boarding and Cathay Pacific's A350-900 Business Class Seats

Business class passengers get two dedicated check-in desks at Auckland Airport, and the bag drop-off process is smooth. While Cathay Pacific invites business class passengers to use the Air New Zealand Lounge, as a business class passenger, you'll be able to use the soon-to-open Qantas Lounge when it goes online in 2026.

Business class passengers are boarded first. There are two business class cabins: the front cabin (rows 11-19) has 30 seats, and the rear cabin (rows 20-21) is behind the second set of doors and features 8 business class seats spread across two rows.

Cathay Pacific's A350-900 Business Class Seats

Cathay Pacific's A350-900 business class features 38 reverse herringbone seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, offering direct aisle access for every passenger. Unlike the newer Aria Suites found on some aircraft, these seats represent Cathay's previous-generation business class product but are very comfortable and have the same amount of space.

Seat Configuration & Best Options: The business class cabin is divided into two sections, with rows 16-18 being the "sweet spot" as they experience less foot traffic and are further away from bathrooms and the gallery.

Seat Features: Based on Safran's Cirrus product line, these reverse herringbone seats are notably more spacious than typical configurations. There is a comfortable footwell, and when converted to bed mode, all seats recline to fully lie-flat beds and are covered in a green woven fabric that matches Cathay's brand colours. The blanket is a high-quality heavy cream colour, and the bed's (optional) mattress is also very comfortable and easy to fit.

Technology & Amenities: The 18-inch monitor is impressive, and the property features an extensive library of entertainment options. Business Class passengers receive complimentary Wi-Fi and a power outlet and USB charging port is available at each seat.

Know This: The middle seats (D/G) work well for couples travelling together, while the window seats (A/K) offer more privacy for solo travellers. Avoid seats in Row 11 (11D/G) due to their proximity to the bathrooms and the gallery.

Our View: While the Cathay Pacific A350-900 seats lack the privacy doors and enhanced features of the newer Aria Suites, they remain a solid business class product with generous space, full flat-bed capability, and Cathay's renowned service standards.

Cathay Pacific Amenities and WIFI Options

Cathay Pacific offers a business class amenity (slippers, eyeshades and some Bamford toiletries. There is free WIFI for all Business Class passengers.

Pre-departure Drinks and Business Class Dining

On our flight from Auckland to Hong Kong, which is representative of the typical service on this route, the following occurred:

Pre-departure drinks were also offered, with the choice of water, orange juice or champagne.
The Captain made his welcome aboard announcement, informing us of the flight time of 11 hours and 10 minutes.
A few minutes later, we began our pushback, and then, after that, we began our taxi. At this point, the safety video was screened.
Takeoff on the A350-900 service to Hong Kong took off, flew out to the western beaches (past Piha), continued up to Northland while heading east, and the seatbelt sign was turned off about 15 minutes after takeoff.
As you'd expect on a long-haul flight, lunch is served shortly after takeoff, with orders taken just after boarding. The menu and drink list for this flight are below. Warm towels were distributed around 20 minutes after takeoff. The photos and menu outline a selection of the dining options available in June 2025.
The A350-900 offers three toilets for 38 passengers, which is a good ratio. Two (positioned at the front) have windows and feel spacious. In the galley by the toilets, some packaged self-serve snacks were also available, but you can order anything from the menu at any time.
The crew working on our flight in June 2025 was friendly and attentive. After around 10.5 hours in flight, the Captain announced we would be landing in around 30 minutes. Ten minutes later, we began our descent, and then, ten minutes after that, the seatbelt sign was turned on.
Arriving in Hong Kong is easy, and if you're connecting, there is a quick security screening. Then it's a brief walk to one of the four Cathay Pacific lounges available throughout the Hong Kong Airport.

The menu:

The full menu and cellar list:

Photos from the flight can be found below:

Cathay Pacific Business Class Auckland to Hong Kong - Our Conclusion

Passengers in Cathay Pacific’s A350-900 Business Class enjoy outstanding comfort and privacy across all seats. The lie-flat beds, especially in the paired centre seats, are particularly cozy for couples, while the window seats offer a spacious and tranquil retreat. Fully reclining the seat and setting up the bed creates a snug, restful sleeping area. The attentive crews, endless entertainment and a favourable bathroom-to-passenger ratio make it a strong choice.

For anyone flying further than Hong Kong, the airline delivers a top-tier long-haul experience and seamless one-stop connections to its extensive Asia and Europe network.

Business class fares, when booked early, are often competitive or more affordable than those of Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Qantas for routes to Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cathay Pacific's Business Class on the Auckland to Hong Kong Route

We answer common queries below:

What is the seat like in Cathay Pacific Business Class on the Auckland to Hong Kong route?

Cathay Pacific's A350-900 Business Class features a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone layout, giving every passenger direct aisle access. The seat converts into a fully lie-flat bed with plush bedding, a soft pillow and excellent privacy. Solo travellers should aim for the window seats (A/K), while couples may prefer the centre seats (D/G). All seats are well-cushioned, with ample legroom and a spacious footwell.

What can I expect from the dining experience in Cathay Pacific Business Class?

Dining is restaurant-style, served in courses shortly after takeoff and again before landing. You'll be offered a glass of champagne or juice before departure, followed by a multi-course lunch and a light refreshment before landing. Menus are updated seasonally and feature a variety of Western and Asian options, complemented by a carefully curated wine and beverage list. Orders are taken after boarding, and food is served at scheduled times (not dine-on-demand).

What is the inflight entertainment like?

Cathay Pacific won Skytrax's 2025 Best Inflight Entertainment for a reason. Expect a high-resolution 18-inch screen, noise-cancelling headphones, and an enormous library of new-release movies, TV shows, documentaries, music and games. The system is fast, responsive, and intuitive to use.

Is Wi-Fi available in Business Class?

Yes – Wi-Fi is complimentary for all Business Class passengers. It's suitable for emails, messaging, and light browsing. Speeds are generally reliable on the A350 aircraft, especially over Asia-Pacific airspace.

What lounge can I use in Auckland before the flight to Hong Kong?

Cathay Pacific passengers departing from Auckland can use the Air New Zealand International Lounge, which offers a range of amenities, including hot and cold meals, barista coffee, a self-service bar, showers, and multiple quiet seating areas. From 2026, Cathay Pacific Business Class passengers will have access to the new Qantas International Lounge, which is expected to provide a premium upgrade.

What are the sleeping arrangements like in Cathay's A350-900?

The seats transform into comfortable beds with plush blankets and a big pillow. The large footwell is ideal for side sleepers. The seats in the centre section are perfect for couples.

What are the best connections from Hong Kong?

Cathay Pacific's night arrival into Hong Kong (~9:30pm local time) allows for overnight layovers or late-night onward flights to destinations across Europe, China, Southeast Asia, Japan, and India. The following morning, dozens of Cathay flights leave between 12am and 2am, offering convenient one-stop options. Return flights (CX113, HKG-AKL) typically depart in the evening, around 9, and land in Auckland around 11 am, making for a smooth return journey.

How comfortable is the seat for sleeping?

The lie-flat bed, plush blanket, and large pillow combine to create a genuinely restful sleeping experience. The footwell is roomy enough for side sleepers, and the cabin remains dark and quiet after the main meal service. Many travellers report good quality rest, especially in the centre section or further away from the galleys.

What is Asia Miles? Should I join or credit flights to another frequent flyer program?

Asia Miles is Cathay Pacific’s loyalty program, and it rewards members with miles based on the fare paid and the distance flown. But if you're only flying Cathay Pacific once a year – such as a return trip from Auckland to Hong Kong – it may not be the best program to credit your flights to.

Why Crediting to Air New Zealand Airpoints Makes More Sense
Cathay Pacific is a partner of Air New Zealand, and return flights between Auckland and Hong Kong can be credited to your Airpoints account. Instead of earning Asia Miles – which may sit unused and eventually expire – you’ll earn Airpoints Dollars (APD), which are far more practical for most New Zealanders:

Airpoints Dollars don’t expire as long as you're active, and can be used for any Air New Zealand flight, upgrades, rental cars, or even Koru membership.
You avoid the risk of orphaned points in an overseas airline program, especially if you don’t fly Cathay regularly.

What About Qantas Frequent Flyer?
Cathay Pacific flights can also be credited to Qantas Frequent Flyer – a potentially good option if you’re already earning Qantas Points and flying with their network. But remember:

Qantas Points can expire without account activity, and upgrades on Cathay using Qantas Points are not possible.

When Asia Miles Does Make Sense
If you’re a regular Cathay Pacific traveller, especially beyond just AKL-HKG-AKL, Asia Miles has strong perks:

Access to award flights and upgrades on Cathay Pacific, including their premium cabin experience.
Cathay Pacific lounges and priority access benefits for elite status members.
Miles can be used for flights across the oneworld alliance, including British Airways, Qatar Airways, Japan Airlines and more.

Our View: For most New Zealanders doing just a return trip to Hong Kong once a year, crediting to Air New Zealand Airpoints is simpler, more valuable, and more flexible.

How much do Cathay Pacific Business Class fares cost?

Return Auckland–Hong Kong fares generally start from $3,500
Return fares to Europe via Hong Kong typically begin around $8,500 to $9,500
One-way Auckland to London in Business Class often costs around $4,800

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