Anyone Updates On Virgin Aus x Air NZ Code Share Timing?

As per Executive Traveller, the ACCC green lit the partnership in early June but things were still pending sign off from the New Zealand Ministry of Transport. Been radio silent since then.

I've got some travel plans to NZ in Oct and then again in Dec so have been stalling my bookings to try maximise points/status credits if the partnership goes through.

Anyone heard any whispers around a potential launch date or timing?

Alternatively, what do we think the chances are that Velocity will honour points/status on Air NZ flights booked prior to the announcement but flown after the partnership formally starts?