I asked them by email before applying and they confirmed they accept the white paper A4 size nie document (even as this doesn't prove residency). I guess it proves you have some connection to Spain. Anyway your incorrect reply highlights the need to ask the consulate directly for their requirements instead of trusting online advice.
I got the approval today, exactly 30 days after I applied, and I received it at 1206AM spanish time, suggesting the approval was set to automatically approve on that date. Maybe it's to extend the validity (not vaste from the 5 years before you travel).
I applied there on Aug 12, they asked the next day for another document, then after that nothing. I emailed them two days ago to ask how long it will take. They replied and asked when I'm traveling. I replied end of September, they replied and said that then the visa should be approved soon.