There are no shortcuts anymore.....if you go overseas you will still be up for a ATPL flight test ,which require Instrument ratings and MCC.(CASA does not recognise overseas MCC credits for co-pilots)
Don't forget the Night hours required......there was a massive rush prior to Sept 1st to get an ATPL.
The cost to get an ATPL in NZ, is on par with AUS....
All that has happened is overseas guys with quals and experience are coming in and converting with very little training and taking the jobs.....thank CA$A for this.