Tubehead - have you ever tried the D'Addarios? I used to use Rotos and DRs, but switched to the EXL-170 nickel rounds years ago and love them. If you like the stainless roundwound sound, then maybe check out the EPS-170 prosteels. From JustStrings.com, it looks like both sets would cost around NZ$18 give-or-take a bit, plus shipping. I can't imagine shipping would be too bad, even via EMS (assuming they ship International?)
If you append "S" to either set's model number, you'll get the short-scale version. I like those because they don't have silk windings at the ball-ends, and they fit perfectly on the old Gibson bar, ever-tilt, and 3-point bridges as a result (IME). I use the regular long scale version on my Ric, Tbird, etc... I kinda like that I can run the same string on all of 'em.
At any rate- string preference is a highly subjective thing!! Just thought I'd mention these, since I found them to be very cost effective and hold their sound for a long time (years, on some of my basses).