New Zealand Online Gambling Law: NZ to Offer Casino Licences
- New Zealand is set to introduce a regulated online casino market by 2026, issuing 15 online casino licences to offshore and local operators.
- The new online gambling laws aim to combat offshore gambling, protect consumers, and generate tax revenue.
- Stringent regulations will be enforced, including harm minimisation measures and substantial penalties for breaking the law.
Imagine a country where citizens spend over $700 million annually on poker, blackjack, and online gaming—yet much of this activity occurs in a regulatory gray zone. New Zealand is poised to change that. By 2026, New Zealand to offer 15 online casino licences, a move designed to bring structure, oversight, and consumer protection to its burgeoning igaming sector. This marks a significant shift in gambling law, aiming to create a regulatory system for online gambling market that protects kiwi players while capturing gaming revenue.
New Zealand to Offer 15 Online Casino Licences: Gambling Reform
The proposed online gambling legislation, known as the Online Casino Gambling Bill, will introduce a regulatory system for online casinos. New Zealand to offer 15 online casino licences for casino games such as table games and slot machines. The new bill will introduce a regulatory system for online gambling in new zealand. This aims to channel New Zealand’s online activity away from unregulated online operators, ensuring a safer and more transparent experience for players. The new bill will proceed to select committee later this year and new Zealanders will have the ability to have their say through the select committee process.
The Nz Regulatory System for Online Gambling in New Zealand
Currently, online gambling in new zealand by domestic operators is prohibited under the Gambling Act 2003 and the Racing Industry Act 2020. However, New Zealanders can legally access offshore gambling sites. The Casino bill will introduce a regulatory system with a formal licensing process. This system is designed to include offshore operators while enforcing higher operational standards. Licensed operators will be required to pay a gambling tax and contribute to a problem gambling levy. The Casino Gambling bill will introduce a new regulatory system that protects consumers from gambling harm.
Key Data Comparison
| Metric | 2025 (Projected) | 2029 (Projected) |
|---|---|---|
| Revenue | US$2.89 billion | US$3.34 billion |
| CAGR (2025-2029) | 3.65% | N/A |
| ARPU | US$1.18k | N/A |
| Number of Users | N/A | 2.6 million |
| User Penetration | 46.3% | N/A |
Online Casino Gambling Bill: A Detailed Look
The Casino Gambling bill will introduce a three-stage application process. This process starts with expressions of interest, followed by an auction for qualified operators, and finally, the submission of a full licence application. A crucial aspect is that only 15 three-year licences must submit detailed business plans are available, with a cap of three licences per operator. The licenses can be extended by an additional five years. Existing online operators can continue serving New Zealand customers until December 31, 2025, provided they apply for a license by July 1, 2026. The new bill will proceed to select committee later this year and new Zealanders will have the ability to have their say through the select committee process.
Protecting Players and Minimising Gambling Harm
A core objective of the online gambling reform is to minimise gambling harm and prioritize harm minimisation. The new regulatory system for online gambling will include mandatory transparency in bonus terms, wagering requirements, and withdrawal conditions. These measures aim to rebuild trust in online gaming. One of the 15 three-year licences must submit detailed business plans to prioritize harm minimisation and protect the community and sport. The new regulations and formal warnings will also apply regardless of whether a person is in New Zealand and combat offshore operators breaking the law.
Impact on the Gambling Market and Community Sport
The introduction of a regulated igaming market is expected to significantly impact the New Zealand gambling market. Shifting gambling activity from unregulated online platforms to licensed operators aims to generate substantial gaming revenue for the government. However, it’s essential to note that only sports betting will remain the exclusive domain of TAB NZ. Community funding, often supported by local clubs and sport and community organizations, could see changes as the market evolves. A key aspect of this regulatory shift is not just about capturing gambling profits, but also about ensuring those gambling profits support community sport at the grassroots level.
Major Players Entering the New Zealand Gambling Regulatory System
Several major igaming operators have expressed interest in entering the new zealand gambling regulatory system. This includes both local and international companies. The likes of SkyCity, which already holds land-based casino licences, are anticipated to be strong contenders. The new bill will proceed to select committee later this year and new Zealanders will have the ability to have their say through the select committee process. The influx of reputable, licensed operators is expected to enhance the quality and safety of online gambling in new zealand.
Economic Benefits and Public Consultation
The establishment of a regulated online casino gambling system is projected to generate substantial tax revenue for New Zealand. However, the long-term success of this venture hinges on a balanced approach that fosters economic growth while effectively addressing the potential for gambling harm. As the new online gambling legislation moves through New Zealand Parliament, public consultation is crucial to ensure that the regulations meet the needs of all stakeholders. Zealanders will have the ability to have their say through the select committee process.
Deep Dive: Market Analysis
The move towards a regulated igaming market in New Zealand coincides with a broader global trend of increased online gambling activity. The New Zealand government’s decision to licence up to 15 online casino operators is expected to reduce the risk of consumers using offshore gambling sites. With the growth of online casinos, this sector is expected to generate substantial gaming revenue in the coming years. The online casino gambling sector is expected to generate substantial tax revenue for the government.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is online gambling allowed in New Zealand?
Currently, it’s a gray area. Online gambling by domestic operators is banned, but New Zealanders can legally access offshore online gambling sites.
What are the new gambling rules in New Zealand?
The proposed Casino Gambling bill will introduce a regulatory system that will license up to 15 online casino operators and regulate online gambling. The bill aims to protect consumers, minimise harm, and generate tax revenue.
Is Bet365 no longer in New Zealand?
No. As an offshore operator, Bet365 still operates in New Zealand. The new rules aim to bring them under a NZ regulatory framework.
Which country has the loosest gambling laws?
That’s subjective and depends on the type of gambling. Some countries have very few restrictions, while others are stricter on certain forms of gambling.
Conclusion
The future of online gambling in New Zealand hinges on the successful implementation of the Casino Gambling bill. While the details of the legislation is worked out with public consultation through the select committee process later, the next few years will be critical in determining the long-term impact of this gambling law on the Kiwi igaming market and community.
