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New Zealand has proposed new measures to regulate online casino gambling, including limiting the number of licenses issued to operators, introducing age verification systems, and banning ads targeting children. The government aims to rein in the rapidly expanding sector, which has seen increasing numbers of New Zealanders gambling on offshore websites.
Offenders to face fines
Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden outlined the proposed regulations on Wednesday, saying that offenders could face fines of up to NZ$5 million ($3 million). The new framework is expected to come into effect by early 2026.
“My goal is not to increase the amount of gambling that is happening online, but to enable New Zealanders who wish to play casino games online to do so more safely than they can today,” Van Velden said in a statement.
Currently, New Zealand does not regulate online casino gambling, leaving consumers exposed to unregulated offshore platforms. Van Velden stressed that the new regulatory system would channel local customers toward up to 15 licensed operators, ensuring a safer and more controlled environment for online gambling.
The proposed measures follow the government’s announcement in July to issue licenses for online casinos, limiting operators to online casino games only, and prohibiting sports betting and lottery products. The regulations would also enforce a minimum age of 18 for players.
New Zealand’s gaming industry
The increasing popularity of online gambling, especially through mobile platforms, has contributed to a rise in demand. Research from Statista forecasts that revenue from online gambling platforms in New Zealand could grow annually by approximately 6 percent between 2024 and 2029.
With the new system, the government hopes to address consumer protection concerns regarding the lack of regulation. Additional rules, including guidelines on advertising and further consumer protection, will be developed under the existing gambling law. Van Velden confirmed that a bill would be introduced to Parliament next year to finalise the regulations.
In summary, New Zealand’s government is moving to take control of the online gambling sector, prioritising consumer safety and limiting exposure to unregulated offshore sites. The country is seeking to strike a balance between offering legal online gambling opportunities and safeguarding its citizens from potential harm.
