The New Zealand government has announced plans to regulate online casinos, with the new regulatory system “to be in place from early 2026”.
In a statement on the government’s website, Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden has said that a “high-level approach” to online casino regulation has been agreed to by the government, “designed to minimise harm, support tax collection and provide consumer protections to New Zealanders”.
Van Velden commented: “There will be a licensing system for online casinos, where operators will need to comply with a set of criteria before they will be able to offer services to New Zealanders. It will be illegal for unlicensed operators to offer services to New Zealanders.
“Licensing is how we regulate most forms of gambling domestically. This is not intended to increase the amount of gambling New Zealanders do but to ensure operators meet requirements for consumer protection and harm minimisation, as well as paying tax.”
Regarding licences, only a limited number will be allocated via auction, each lasting three years and being conditional on meeting regulatory requirements.
Online gambling will only be prohibited for those aged 18 or over, with operators only being able to offer online casino games, not sports betting or lottery.
In addition, licensed gambling operators will be allowed to advertise, but with strict limits in place. Previously, advertising by licensed gambling operators was prohibited. Sponsorship by online casinos will remain illegal.
Van Velden added: “I expect the new regulatory system to be in place from early 2026 and the public will have the opportunity to provide feedback during the Select Committee process. Once established, the Department of Internal Affairs will be the regulator.”
The New Zealand minister added that further details regarding the regulation of online casinos will be announced later this year.
SkyCity Entertainment Group has also provided a statement showing its support for online casino regulation.
“The SkyCity Entertainment Group remains supportive of the regulation of online casino gaming in New Zealand with an emphasis on strong host responsibility and delivering community benefits in New Zealand.”