Old thread I know but thoguht this might be of interest to some. PotBS is free for NZ and AU users.
Instead of distributing boxes into the region, FLS have partnered with Telstra to deliver PoTBS digitally via the Gamearena/Bigpond service.
Basically it means you can sign up and download the game for nothing and have a 7 day trial period. Once that expires you need to subscribe as normal but you no longer have any upfront cost.
There is a dedicated AU server (still based in the US though) for this scheme and if you're simply interested in seeing what Pirates is like then its worth a look.
http://www.gamearena.com.au/pirates/