I did check that, actually. HA had a confirmed ticket for $690 HNL to SYD when I first thought about it but of course when I went back to book it, it was gone. Ya win some, ya lose some.

AC has a great ZED fare HNL to SYD of around $250 RT. But they only have one flight a day so it could be risky that way. Especially if they run full like you mentioned. But I'll definitely consider that option too.

Thanks!