Fortunately not all flying schools and aero clubs are not as Remoak & EBCAU describe. I know a few that do utilise the knowledge and skills of some "retreads".
All I can say is if you want to do it get stuck in and find an instructor you are happy with. 15 hours is a long time in the circuit though if you're doing it at NZWN I can see how the time can mount up without a lot of progress. I'm not sure about your situation but I've seen some students take longer than normal at this phase because they fly in fits and starts and don't really get any consistency.
Good luck.