Wow I didn't know that the "standard" overhead joining procedure was so... different between countries.
In NZ its not 1000' above circuit height, its 500'. And the number of orbits above the circuit the pilot makes is not defined. The idea being that you circle above the circuit until you have adequate situational awareness of whats going on below before you commence your join. If you approach from the deadside, you make at least a 180 degree turn before starting your descent.