Being only a Paying customer, with my own money in cattle class, and knowing nothing about Air New Zealand staffing politics I would like to add my findings.
In November/December last year I flew Spain to UK Monarch. UK to USA Virgin Atlantic, USA to Auckland Air NZ, Auckland to Christchurch Air NZ then return Air NZ. Then Auckland to Brisbane Air NZ. Brisbane to Perth Virgin Blue. Perth to Singapore then Singapore to UK Singapore Air. then Ryan Air UK to Spain.
Cabin crew on Air New Zealand all over 30 years old some knocking 60 on all flights. By far the best cabin staff we had on any flight.
Cabin crew on Virgin Blue all well under 30 by far the worst cabin staff we had on any flight.
Now I read all the postings concerning your internal strife but it seems the Oldies are getting it well right. In order of merit I would class cabin staff as:
1. Air NZ
2. Virgin Atlantic 3. Singapore 4. Monarch 5. Ryan, 6. Virgin Blue
Bob Head
Passenger