Hi Dave. From "Flight" 3 May 1945.
The first Lancastrian on a development flight for the London- New Zealand service shortly to be opened arrived in Auckland in 53 hr. 13 min. flying time from England, a distance of 13,380 statute miles.
This is the first of five Lancastrians ordered by Qantas Airways for a regular service, and it left this country on April 23rd, touching down at Auckland at 05.20 hr. on the 27th.
The second aircraft left U.K. on April 24th.
It is hoped that the service, which will bring New Zealand within about 86 br. Of London, might start early in June, but this would depend on deliveries of aircraft.
As a preliminary, aircraft will fly straight through, changing crews at Karachi, where Qantas take over. As aircraft and crews become more available, BOAC and Qantas will operate parallel services.
Being ex BOAC aircraft actual ownership of the aircraft would be an interesting question, as BOAC had a 50% stake in QEA. Were they "lent" to QEA who then painted them in their livery and Australian registration?