@philbky
I understand what you are trying to say, but A380 is not the cure all. Your theory is academic in nature and your own example (747 to twins) proves trend is against VLAs.
Hypothetical example. If flybe sees a DHC6 as a viable plane to Barra, it is going to operate a DHC6 to Barra. Doesn't matter how big the other airport is, what problems it has, how great A380 CASM. All are irrelevant data points.
LHR can charge same for A380 and DHC6 to encourage VLAs over others, BUT it is up to the airline.
There is no way airlines going to invest in VLAs to help out LHR. They will go to different airport or different country.
Mega hub model never going to work forever. Competitors will start long thin non-stops which will nibble into hub feeds.
BTW, you missed the point that EK can only offer one-stop between AKL-Europe just like other 6th freedom carriers. Only ANZ can offer more non-stops.