Instead of bending the clutch arm, you can get a new,
adjustable length pin that goes from the arm to the 'piston' (slave cyl).
This is VERY handy. I have one on my LS, and it has saved many headaches. Not sure where you'd get one in NZ, though...
To adjust the clutch, pull the 'arm' away from the motor as far as you can, just using your hand. Now, the gap between the arm and the bolt sticking out of the cover should be
around .020 of an inch. Use feeler gauges. I never have measured it this accurately, i've just done the 'she'll be right' kinda adjustments on my cars.
Note: just a guide, please, get yourself a workshop manual.