I can't really see the problem of those NZ guys coming over if they want to. On the contrary, I think it could be a blessing for all of us, on the condition that NO NZ Captains can come, only F/O's.
The company is desperately looking for quality pilots, but only a few are still coming. This means harder work for all of us, since we are not enough to fly those planes. So, the more people can come to help us out, the better.
Also, if these F/O's come, they get a place on the EK seniority, and will not bypass a single person who joined before them. That is of course if EK plays the game as it should be played (which it probably won't). Oncde their 3 years is done, they can decide, either to stay, or to go back to NZ. I can not see any difference with a 'normal' applicant, except from the fact that these guys can go back if they wish to. Well, a lot of us can/could go back to their former employer if they wished to, even though we officially resigned to come to EK.
As for the union thing... makes me laugh. The NZ union boys have absolutely nada to say in this. They might fight their battle with Air NZ for conditions for the boys who take up the offer, but what can they possibly do towards EK? These boys will sign each an individual contract with EK if they pass the screening... not really different from us. Or do you really think that if all the UK guys suddenly joined BALPA, that they would have representation?? No way...
So kiwi-boys, you're more then welcome as F/O's, but leave those damn DEC's in the land with the long white cloud...
MR8