SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
The New Zealand government has initiated plans to regulate online casinos, aiming to have the new regulatory framework in place by early 2026.
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden stated that the government has agreed to a high-level approach for online casino regulation. This approach aims to minimise harm, support tax collection, and provide consumer protections for New Zealanders.
Van Velden explained that there will be a licensing system for online casinos. Operators must comply with specific criteria before offering services to New Zealanders. It will be illegal for unlicensed operators to provide services.
“We regulate most forms of gambling domestically through licensing. This regulation is not intended to increase gambling but to ensure operators meet consumer protection and harm minimization requirements, as well as paying taxes,” Van Velden said.
The government will allocate a limited number of licenses via auction, each lasting three years and conditional on meeting regulatory requirements.
Online gambling will be restricted to those aged 18 or over. Operators can only offer online casino games, not sports betting or lottery.
Licensed gambling operators will be allowed to advertise, but with strict limits. Previously, advertising by licensed operators was prohibited. Sponsorship by online casinos will remain illegal.
Van Velden expects the new regulatory system to be in place by early 2026. The public will have the opportunity to provide feedback during the Select Committee process. The Department of Internal Affairs will act as the regulator once the system is established.
Further details regarding online casino regulation will be announced later this year.
SkyCity Entertainment Group expressed support for online casino regulation, emphasizing strong host responsibility and community benefits in New Zealand.
