I must agree with Bula
On late arrivals into akl I always ask if the is any speed control on descent. Usually the instant response is standard speeds( almost as if they couldnt be bothered to pick up the phone to ask what speed they want) only to be asked on the next frequency for max speed as long as possible.
While I'm at it does anyone know how, to be told to leave cruise altitude 40-50nm early help with the sequence into Akl.
Cheers