It's not that bad.
Wherever you fly there will always be negative and plus points. The original question was to do with flying and not the economy. The way of life in the U.K. has not changed in recent years so I am sure you know what its like. Not much different to when you left.
The negative flying points possibly come from people who have not made it to a position where they want to be -possibly.
Like any professional industry progression can take time and sacrifices like money but if you stick with it then the rewards can be good wherever you go.
As for training abroard and the attitudes you receive back here, well, they are evident amongst the odd person but if you can prove your'e not a complete halfwit then those people soon shut up. Many a time it's jealousy that goads them anyway.
You will make your decision which will be right for you but look at the bigger picture.
Vital Actions - how long were you in NZ for?