Interesting and thanks for sharing.
I have recently seen V Aust adverts on Wellington buses (very much branding type adverts rather than the normal PAc Blue route orientated adverts). Given the limited connections Wgn has to V Aust flights, this fits together very plausibly.
Within NZ I have heard many people refer to Pac Blue as Virgin and overall I get the impression the Pac Blue brand names isn't that strong even in NZ.
AirNZ charging $30 for the meals (ie premium for Works and yes I know it includes a movie) makes Pac Blues but on board menu look good value.
Interesting suggestion on the shift to an Aust AOC.