Online gambling regulations in New Zealand set for implementation in 2026
The New Zealand government has announced plans to regulate online casinos, starting from early 2026. This move aims to provide a safer gaming experience for players and generate tax payments from gambling providers in the country.
The Department of Internal Affairs will be responsible for the regulation and licensing of online casinos in New Zealand. The regulatory framework will require strict licensing checks, robust player protection measures, and close cooperation between the New Zealand Gambling Commission, the Department of Internal Affairs, and international regulators to enforce compliance.
The licensing system will be competitive, with a limited number of licenses (around 15) issued under stringent conditions. Applicants will be evaluated on their ability to meet these standards and demonstrate transparency, fairness in gaming, and secure financial transactions.
Brooke van Velden, the Interior Minister of New Zealand, wants to give the public the opportunity to provide feedback during the licensing process to potentially adjust the licensing criteria for gambling. This approach is aimed at ensuring that the regulations are tailored to the needs and concerns of the New Zealand population.
The aim of this structured licensing system is to create a safer and more regulated online gambling environment in New Zealand compared to the current largely unregulated sector. The emphasis on competitive selection and close oversight reflects a significant tightening and modernization of New Zealand’s gambling laws.
The SkyCity Entertainment Group, a major player in New Zealand's gambling industry, has expressed support for the government's plans to regulate online casinos. Jason Walbridge, CEO of the SkyCity Entertainment Group, emphasized the importance of keeping gambling funds in the country. The group operates land-based casinos in Auckland, Hamilton, and Queenstown, as well as one in Adelaide, Australia.
It is yet uncertain which operators will apply for a gambling license in New Zealand and whether the planned start date for the licensing process in 2026 can be met. It is important to note that unlicensed operators will be illegal to offer services to New Zealanders.
The new gambling licenses in New Zealand will not cover online sports betting or lotteries. The licenses will initially have a validity of three years. The new regulatory system is expected to come into effect at the beginning of 2026.
The regulation of online casinos is intended to provide players with a safe gaming experience and generate tax payments from gambling providers in New Zealand. The SkyCity Entertainment Group believes that regulation is an important step to keep gambling funds in New Zealand instead of losing them to overseas providers.
Online casinos in Germany may also soon have a more regulated environment, similar to New Zealand's plans. With sports being a significant part of gambling, overseeing sports-related activities within online casinos would be crucial in such a regulatory framework.
After the New Zealand Gambling Commission and the Department of Internal Affairs issue their limited number of licenses for online casinos, players might find a broader range of sports available for betting, fostering a more engaging and diverse gaming experience.
