A Dreamliner did touch down in Auckland late last year but that aircraft was filled with flight test equipment in the cabin area. The aircraft due here next week is fitted out with a business-class cabin, an overhead crew rest compartment and an economy class section with a 3-3-2 seating configuration.
When airlines order the aircraft they specify their own cabin layout.
A Boeing spokeswoman said that during the "Dream Tour" 65,000 people will go aboard the plane.
Airline officials, government representatives, Boeing staff, suppliers and journalists will be aboard during the transtasman leg of the tour.
The high-tech plane promises improved passenger comfort with larger, dimmable windows, bigger baggage compartments and smart lighting aimed at reducing jet lag. It offers 20 per cent more fuel efficiency compared with aircraft of a similar size.
It was to have reached the market in 2008 but the first delivery was not until last year. Launch customer All Nippon Airlines began flying passenger routes last October.
Continental Airlines has said it could be flying to New Zealand from Houston in summer, Jetstar next year and Air New Zealand in 2014 - a decade after it ordered the plane.
Air New Zealand has eight of the larger 787-9 versions of the aircraft on order and has said delays have severely hampered its long-haul growth aspirations.
Direct flights to the eastern seaboard of North America and South America will be possible as will services to India.
