MBA,
Some very interesting and good points. It seems that you have chosen a route which is suited to you.
However, you seem to be comparing yourself to a modular student. I thought the CTC scheme was modular in NZ? It appears that you have paid 14k for a contiational job offer. If you think its worth it, then like I say, it was the right move for you. I personally would rather keep the deposit on a house.
Having said that, the CTC scheme (which is NOT sponsorship - you'll find your name on the loan agreement) is by far the best of its kind. This is mainly due to the fact that it's cheaper as it is modular. Last I saw was a loan of 50k covered it all (it may well be more now) compared to 60k plus 4k plus around 10 to 15k food and accomodation on the OAT scheme.
Basically, you got a better deal on a better scheme, perhaps 20k to 30k cheaper than this OAT/TCX scheme. Add the 14k you feel you lost out on compared to self-selected modular and it makes me shiver.
EK