I find your reasonong flawed.
What is the difference between Grant Braes training two days a week and then having a road trip to Invercargill or a weekend trip to Queenstown. Should they be paid?
At what point do you draw the line..
Rugby is a different kettle of fish and cannot be used as a comparrison, football in NZ is a participation sport, rugby has lost touch with this concept. Professional rugby is killing Otago rugby, there is no tie in with local players, players treat Otago as a stepping stone.
A friend of mine believes that Otago should model itself on Southland when it comes to the rugby, make sure you develop and hold onto your local talent and then fill the gaps with players wanting a chance.