kmjame
Couldn't agree more with Jack Ranga,
I went from PPL to CPL ME/IR in less than 8 months in USA. The best time ever in my life. Very good people and i had alot of fun flying cross country building hrs.
If i were you, i would be starting to look at a start date and a flying school ASAP. In terms of the school, make sure you its a FAA approved Part 141 school. Very important when it comes to convert your license back in Nz.
All in all, all the best lad.