Clearly a delaying tactic so the appeal won't be heard before it's too late for the U17's to be banned from Chile. OFC has agreed not to rule on U17 decision until after the U23's appeal (at NZF's request) this delay will block decision until it's too late.
Think this is bang on.
I also recall some release from NZ football recently where they said they really wanted this sorted asap so they know where they stand before our next friendly.
That was probably just a ruse to make today's announcement more palatable to the footballing public.
If nothing else the thousands they are spending on this challenge may slow things down long enough for the under 17's to go.