I think they made a decision that they wanted games in Sth America or Los Angeles and in NZ to replicate home and away. When it started looking like that wasn't going to work they have focussed on playing 2 international matches in that area. No internationals sides show interest so they look at club teams - this is where the wheels start to fall off this plan and alternative options looked at - unfortunately this stage seemed to be reached about 2 weeks ago not 2 months ago when we could have started looking at other options. Now the club teams are falling through they're saying actually that doesn't matter and it's just good to get the players together for a camp.
Frankly, that's rubbish.
When they couldn't get the games in LA they should have looked at meaningful internationals in other parts of the world - proper competitive matches are important at this stage. Aussie are playing Canada at Craven Cottage next Tuesday in London. Craven Cottage is always available for international friendlies - I don't know the economics but why couldn't we get a fixture there?
Off topic but am looking forward to that game next week. Aussies play regularly in the UK which is great, seem the twice in London as well as Cardiff. Cheap tickets too.
I wish NZF had someone on the board with the nous to arrange games against your Wales/Scotlands/San Morinos/Slovenias/Slovakias/Latvias this way.