So if Massey had it soooo wrong why did all the others try to emulate them!
To level the playing field (it obviously worked, hence the topic of this thread). These Diploma courses are nothing like a Massey Degree (the basic structure involves about 1/3 the theory component) - they are Polytechs (NMIT, WINTEC, EIT).
These courses allow more conventional training organisations (Flying Schools and Aero Clubs) to offer student loans (not government funding, loans!). In my experience, smaller, less money-hungry institutions are more responsible when it comes to screening applicants.
I don't see why some people get all hot and bothered about student loans for flight training. They are available to help people prepare for most other career choices - Just because you did it the hard way
, aviation is hard enough - deferring payment (at no cost to the tax payer) till you're earning a decent crust makes sense IMO.