Hey Rusty
I would go to the CAA website and talk to them about your experience and see what they say. link
https://www.caa.govt.nz/
NZ is a great place to live and work.
Also one of the best places to train, regardless of the type of flying you wish to do later in your career.
Yes flying jobs are hard to come by and it can be very transient to begin with, if you are determined you will succeed.
Good luck with your choice.