The Kiwis need some air capability to be sure, but to suggest that the Aussies and the US wouldn't step in to help if something no **** happens is silly. Do you really think we'd (the US and AS) stand by and let's say the Chinese swarm and take your island? Not a chance in hell. Now pirates and local terrorists? That's a different story. The Kiwis should focus on counter-terrorist type capabilities, and maintain friendly relations with nations that can provide big-war capability. Seriously, what does a Skyhawk with an F-16 radar give you?
Whatever, I'm just a helo driver, what do I know?