poor quality, lack of exposure and irrelevance
I am amazedballs that you are not intentionally describing the current NL, tbh.
I just don't see how splitting out players among more clubs strengthens it though.
What is the purpose of the NL? i don't believe we will have a pro league in NZ in my lifetime. Or probably my kids lifetime. If the strategic goal for NZ Football is game participation, and national team achievement, then don't we just want a NL that gets NZ eligible players into Pro Leagues?
Amateur league that encourages the playing of young 'uns seems like a good step. The tragics (I do include myself in this) will go anyway. Non-tragics aren't attracted by the current format.