Summary
- New Zealand plans to introduce online casino gambling by 2026.
- The government is advancing with a model that includes 15 operators.
- The finalization of advertising and consumer protection regulations is underway.
The New Zealand government has formally proposed a new online casino model that will offer 15 licenses. This system is expected to be fully implemented by 2026, with licensed operators launching at various stages leading up to that year.
New Zealand is ever closer to launching its online casino industry
The plan is to implement a multi-license model in the online casino sector while restricting sports betting to a single operator. Any party interested in applying for a license must go through an official process, during which the regulator will determine which applicants are best suited to meet the needs of the local market. The Online Casino Gambling Bill outlines the regulations potential applicants must adhere to. Supported by Minister Brooke van Velden, she stated: The Online Casino Gambling Bill will create a regulatory system for online gambling in New Zealand that prioritizes harm minimization, consumer protection, and tax collection. The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA), which is advancing the bill, has established specific criteria for future applicants. These include stringent consumer protection standards, a clear harm minimization strategy, and adherence to tax laws. The New Zealand Gambling Commission, responsible for administering and overseeing the industry, will ensure that any approved operator remains compliant with these standards.
Consumer protection and advertising rules are being finalized
Simultaneously, the new law aims to restrict the scope of advertising as New Zealand looks to other jurisdictions to stay ahead in harm reduction efforts. Details concerning the consumer protection and advertising regulations that operators must follow are still being finalized by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA). Naturally, there has been some opposition, particularly from local land-based operators. SkyCity Entertainment Group has cautioned the government against acting too quickly and potentially reducing the number of online casino licenses, as this might impact the profitability of land-based venues. Additionally, New Zealand has recently launched an $81 million fund as part of its initiative to prevent and minimize gambling harm. The country is actively working to curtail the influence of unregulated gambling operators and make the local market more appealing to players—a strategy intended to facilitate the legalization of online gaming.
