UK to NZ / OZ is just a dire experience, and for someone (like me) who doesn't sleep on an aeroplane any small improvement in the journey can make a big difference. EK would win hands down: good IFE, as comfortable as economy gets, good transfer at DXB, and if £300 cheaper, what is there to lose? No premium economy though. If it's the antipodean service you like, there'll be as many 'cobbers' in the crew with either airline!