New Zealand (NZ) is progressing towards finalizing a system regulating online casino gambling.
Currently, there is no framework to regulate iGaming in New Zealand, meaning there are no player protections or harm prevention measures.
Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden and her colleagues aim to correct the problem. Van Velden recently stated: “A new Online Gambling Bill will be drafted to regulate online casino gambling and facilitate a safer and compliant regulated online gambling market. It aims to prevent and minimize online gambling harm and limit opportunities for crime and dishonesty.”
The plans were first introduced in July. The government set 2026 as the deadline for enforcing the new regulatory framework, which would also establish a tax collection system.
Internal Affairs Minister Explains New Proposal
Ms. van Velden further explained that the new regulations aim to license up to 15 operators, introduce strict advertising rules regarding children, and impose penalties of up to NZ $5mn for breaches.
“Currently, New Zealanders can gamble on thousands of offshore gambling websites. I intend to channel customers towards up to 15 licensed operators by introducing a regulatory system. Further regulations will be developed around advertising, harm minimization, and consumer protection requirements. This approach is like the existing Gambling Act and will provide flexibility to adjust rules where necessary.
The new regulatory system will be implemented by early 2026. I look forward to taking the Bill through Parliament next year and receiving feedback from the public during the Select Committee stage.”
Gambling In New Zealand
As mentioned above, NZ residents currently have access to many online gambling sites operating outside the country. Legal online casinos in New Zealand are only available from offshore brands; however, the country now wants a cut of the revenue.
Currently, six casinos are operating in the country, four of which are owned by Sky City. The Gambling Commission and the Department of Internal Affairs license casinos.
Sportsbooks in the country are all owned by the Totalisator Agency Board (TAB). The country licenses TAB NZ and operates online and in-person retail outlets.
There are four prominent poker rooms in New Zealand, all of which operate from one of the country’s domestic casinos. Currently, casinos and poker rooms are not allowed to operate online, but if Ms. van Velden gets her legislation approved, up to 15 operators could receive licenses to operate online in 2026.