Actually a very interesting thread. It seems that the procedures in the UK for uncontrolled airspace IFR are working. There are many more IFR flights than space shuttle launches, enough to be statically significantly I say. Then there is always the TCAS.
Just as a side note, I don't have any figures but I imagine there are very few recreational PPL IFR pilots in New Zealand. So I expect most pilots in IMC are being paid to be there or training, not much playing.
I have considered the IFR rating to build my skills but know it I got it I would be unlikely to keep it current.
Apart from the 40 hours or so to get the rating some of the currency requirements are:
(a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), the holder of an instrument
rating must not exercise the privileges of the rating unless the holder has,—
(1) within the immediately preceding 12 months,—
(i) successfully demonstrated to a flight examiner
competency in accordance with rule 61.801(a)(6) for the
appropriate category of aircraft; and
(ii) the person who conducts the competency demonstration
certifies the successful completion of the check in the
pilot’s logbook in accordance with rule 61.29.; and
(2) within the immediately preceding 3 months,—
(i) either met the requirements of paragraph (a)(1) or
completed at least 3 hours instrument time (which must
have included at least 1 hour instrument flight time); and
(ii) carried out at least 3 published instrument approach
procedures (1 of which may be performed in an approved
synthetic flight trainer); and