How early before a flight does VA (intl) check-in open at Wellington Airport?

How early before a flight does VA (intl) check-in open at Wellington Airport?

I'll be taking a Jetstar reward flight from CHC to WLG arriving at 10:40am. My next flight VA107 (in J) from WLG to BNE doesn't depart until 4pm (this is in Jan 2017).

I'd ideally like to re-check in my luggage ASAP after landing and go airside to rest in the lounge. What's the earliest I could do that?

Is there anything I can do in Wellington in the ~5 hrs I have there?

Thanks in advance for your responses :)

What day of the week are you travelling? Wellington International Terminal closes for part of each day:

https://www.wellingtonairport.co.nz/at-the-airport/traveller-information/international-traveller-information/international-departures-opening-hours/ 

Usually its 3 hours prior to departure.

Wellington Airport is pretty close to town, so if you felt inclined, you might want to head into town to have a look around. If you don't know WLG, it's quite a funky city with plenty of cafes, restaurants, bars and pubs.

The Air NZ lounge doesn't open in Wellington until 1300.  I'm pretty sure the check-in doesn't open until just before this and the international terminal including customs don't open until around 1300 either.

I'd head into the city.  Check out the waterfront and Te Papa (national museum, free entry, https://www.tepapa.govt.nz/ ).  If you're interested in World War 1, there is a Peter Jackson exhibition ( http://www.greatwarexhibition.nz/ ) which is brilliant.

Otherwise head to Lambton Quay, the main street.  There's great shopping and cafes.  Then head up the cable car ( http://www.wellingtoncablecar.co.nz/English/Home.html ) and check out the stunning view and the botanical gardens.

Trust me, plenty to do in Wellington, and the lounge isn't really worth rushing to.