Well, after waiting just over seven weeks from the date that my 6lb shipment was dispatched I finally have it at hand.
I realise that my following comments really only have relevance for New Zealanders, for the record I will say this;
Firstly, this is in no way any disparagement of WLT. Everything done by the supplier is first-class. Extremely efficient and professional.
It would appear that the great majority of shipments (provided they don't exceed the 5kg threshold) are hastily shuffled on, unscrutinised by Customs, and are delivered within week to ten days after leaving the US.
It is also true that (probably) random packages, for no obvious reason are held-up for 'heat treatment' - on the pretence that they 'show signs of disease'.
How this could be determined, without actually opening the sealed package, I really don't know. This is obvious because those parcels streaming through, unscathed, have on delivery not been opened for any inspection.
Once the package is caught-up with this treatment requirement there is really no option but to pay your money and play their game. (The alternatives are either returning the consignment at your own expense or having it destroyed for free)!
My guess is that the true reason for opening random packages is to check that they don't contain anything illegal. And, if this is true you'd think that by now Customs would know that this just isn't a possibility. Also, because they have engaged an independent contractor to do the testing (of all sorts of plant and animal items) they are essentially committed to keep him in business. (Sounds cynical, I know, but I'd bet my left-one that it's true.
The only other thing that I will add is that this 'heat treatment' is done without actually opening the sealed packages. But regardless of however it is actually done, it certainly changes the appearance and condition of the leaf. I've seen Red Leaf and Lemon received by others and after treatment, mine looks nothing like them. Mine are considerably darker and even appear slightly dried, even 'baked'.
Finally, I hope these thoughts are helpful. And, I will continue to buy WLT, in the knowledge that you probably can't be unlucky all of the time.