I don't like it but to be fair to NZF I think we're all missing the point on why this is proposed, I say the game is still running on life support and FIFA CWC funding was keeping the national league afloat for many years. Also it seems like they want to make both the Mens and Womens National Leagues the same so by resettling the top of the pyramid it will allow for easy adjustments for when the the game can allow for expansion.
Spot on - the document states that this year’s NL competitions are only happening with government support that is unlikely to be available next season, and without it NZF can’t afford to deliver the competitions as planned.
Classic rock vs hard place situation - everyone wants a full national league (including NZF with their weird pro/rel setup) but unfortunately the cloth needs to be cut somehow.
This is where NZF should pull its head out if the sand and actively find sponsorship and not rely on FIFA/CWC/NZ Govt money. Instead of jobs for the boys, spend some money on decent marketing, promotion and advertising/sponsorship.
NZ and Aus have are very lucky in actually allowing fans at sporting events, it creates a far better atmosphere then any canned crowd on a Euro sporting event. There must be sponsors there keen to be involved.