Surf0, having a 738 rating and 500h on type would certainly improve your chances of obtaining a job in UK. I suspect you'd save a bucketload of money too - the basic TR will cost around £18,000 here; about NZ$48,000.
BA recruit direct-entry type-rated pilots with 400 hours or more on type. Your TP hours would make you a good prospect. Many other airlines would also look favourably at your experience. Virgin, however, would need a little more 'heavy' jet time - minimum 1500 hours on a 737 or similar, on top of your TP time.
Good luck!
Scroggs