Using TTMRA to avoid NZ's ATPL flight test?

[TwoTango]

After having a look at the requirements for an ATPL in Australia and NZ, with the biggest difference I could see being the requirement in NZ to undergo a flight test, I was wondering whether there is a bit of a loophole to get around that by the Mutual Recognition Act. Basically, is there anything to prevent a pilot from NZ sitting the Australian ATPL exams, and then qualifying for the Australian ATPL on reaching the hour requirements (which differ slightly from the NZ ones), and converting that to an NZ ATPL without further tests? Does this happen much? Would it be looked down on by employers in NZ?

TT

[Captain Condom]

That works fine. As far as I know NZ employers don't (can't?) look down on it - an ATPL is an ATPL. I did it (actually I converted a pommy one to an Ozzie one then an NZ one). I know several other people who have done it. Go for it - save yourself some stress. I'm sure you've done enough flight tests, and the airlines will give you a good wringing out every six months anyway!

[saabsforever]

Just to back up what CC said. I had a Aussie ATPL from doing the course just north of Brissie, had the hours. NZ Commercial to Aussie ATPL, Aussie ATPL to NZ one with all the Aussie Type ratings. Only ever actually flew in Aus in PNG redg aircraft and practising for the Pom licence in Adelaide Took 10 weeks to go through including the Justice Dept and Traffic clearance. Lots of forms but once you have the clearances its about 3 weeks and they are pretty good. Check the website to check you have all the paper required to hand. They are all recognised licences no employer worth working for would care how you got the NZ licence issued.