Well, I'm still going out on 26th Air NZ to AUK and having argued with Cathay can't get them to tell me when I might be able to reserve a seat for HKG - LHR on return (might have to wait until 90 minutes before departure at HKG!) so I've bitten the bullet and will return via LA!
Hope you find something gainful, Tightslot! Perhaps you'll be on NZ38 on 26th for my last LHR - HKG - AUK