Joining the last stage of AFC (let’s assume it happen) does have its issues.
The key question for me is whether there is separate qualification for the Confeds Cup and for the spot in the Asia WCQ phase.
Either way, OFC qualification would need to start early.
The final stage of Asia WCQ last time ran from June 2012 to June 2013. So assuming there are two more teams, and then an internal playoff between the two groups, you’d expect that would run from June 2016 to November 2017 (which would include some space for friendlies and the Confederations Cup in June 2017). Thus we would need to find our OFC representative by March 2016.
If OFC had a separate path for Confeds Cup and Asia WCQ phase, then you’d expect a tournament style competition in June 2015 for the Confeds Cup, then a subsequent home and away series for four teams over Sept, Oct, Nov 2015 international windows. However there is issues there as the Pacific Game, which was used as the First Stage of OFC WCQ is taking place 4-18 July 2015. Logistically and financially, it seems difficult.
If it is the same path, then there are significant implications if we do another Honiara. That is, no confeds cup, and no final Asia WCQ phase. I guess this may mean a simple home and away series between the 4/5 best teams over Sept, Oct, Nov 2015, Mar 2016 international windows. But then there is a question how you find those 4/5 best teams. Maybe the 4 from last time plus the winner of the Pacific Games.