New Zealand Online Casino Licences: 2026 Rollout and What It Means

New Zealanders spend over $300 million annually on online gambling platforms. In a move to regulate this activity, the government has confirmed 1 December 2026, as the date when it will begin issuing online casino licences. This marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to modernize its gambling laws and bring unregulated offshore gambling activities under local oversight.

Key Dates for New Zealand Online Casino Licences

The government plans to auction 15 online casino licences, each valid for three years. The process is expected to begin in February 2026. The Bill sets 1 July 2026, as the date when only licensed online gambling providers can offer online casino gambling to people located in New Zealand. This law will apply even if the provider is based outside New Zealand. The new legislation aims to create a safer, regulated online gambling environment. From 1 december 2026 licences must be in place to offer online casino games in New Zealand.

Minister of Internal Affairs and the Online Casino Gambling Bill

Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden has released the cabinet paper for the Online Casino Gambling Bill. The Bill has been progressing through New Zealand Parliament since June. The latest release provides new clarity for operators, community groups, and industry stakeholders. This represents a push for gambling reform in the country. Brooke van Velden maintains that the bill is designed to shift New Zealand players away from unregulated offshore websites. This will move them into a monitored system with robust harm prevention safeguards.

Key Data Comparison

Department of Internal Affairs Regulations

The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) expects to finalize detailed regulations for licence holders by mid-2026. This will provide the sector with time to adjust before the licensing process begins. These regulations cover harm prevention and minimisation, consumer protection, record-keeping, advertising and marketing rules, and applicable fees. The online gambling implementation program is moving forward. A further update outlining the final regulatory decisions is expected before the end of the month.

Community Funding and Offshore Gambling Duty Rising

Modifications to community funding returns are confirmed, with offshore gambling duty rising from 12 percent to 16 percent. The additional four percent will be ringfenced for community projects. According to government estimates, the change could generate between NZ$10 million and NZ$20 million in the first year of the regulated online casino market, depending on total gross gambling revenue. This is separate from land-based casinos.

Criticism from Sports Organizations Regarding the New Zealand Online Casino

The government’s move to regulate online casinos has faced increasing criticism from the sporting sector. More than 50 sports organizations are warning that the legislation may inadvertently reduce financial support for local clubs. Regional sport relies heavily on pokie machine grants, which currently contribute around NZ$170 million annually to community initiatives. The stakeholders argue that introducing licensed online casinos without similar mandatory community-funding obligations could disrupt a long-standing social contract. Martin Snedden, Chair of Cycling New Zealand, said the bill risks undermining arrangements that have historically ensured sporting organizations receive essential funding.

Key Components of the New Gambling Law

The Online Casino Gambling Bill introduces penalties of up to NZ$5 million for serious breaches. These include operating without a license, targeting minors, or using misleading marketing. Licensed gambling operators will be allowed to advertise but must follow strict guidelines. They must also display a mandatory registration icon across their gambling platform. The bill also triggers amendments across related legislation, including the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act 2009, the Gambling Act 2003, and the Gaming Duties Act 1971. Amendments to the Racing Industry Act 2020 expand TAB NZ’s exclusivity over racing and sports betting, both online and land-based. In New Zealand, TAB NZ is the primary sports and racing betting operator.

Licensing System for Online Casinos

Legislation for a licensing system for online casinos was introduced to the New Zealand Parliament on 30 June 2025. Licences will be allocated through a three-stage licensing process. That includes expressions of interest, an auction, and a full licence application. There will be 15 online casino licences available, allocated by auction. One licence will be required per gambling platform or brand. An operator can hold no more than three licences. The licences will be for a three-year period with one right of renewal of up to five years. Licensed online operators will only be able to offer online casino games and table games.

Enforcement and Harm Minimisation

The Regulator will have the ability to suspend or cancel a licence. The Regulator will have a range of enforcement tools, including formal warnings, enforceable undertakings, take-down notices, and pecuniary penalties. These could be up to $5 million. A monetary penalty can be imposed simultaneously on both the provider and the provider’s directors or management staff. The minimum age for online gambling will be 18. Age verification must occur before the player is permitted to make a deposit. The harm minimisation regulations are expected to: Permit payment via cryptocurrency, credit cards, and “buy now pay later” schemes. Require players to set a limit on time, spend and deposits. The player will, however, have the ability to opt out and set no limit. There will be no mandatory limits that are universal across players.

Advertising and Marketing Rules

Licensed gambling operators will be allowed to advertise, but with strict limits. The rules around advertising will be set by regulations. The regulations are expected to: Prohibit paid endorsements such as promotions by social media influencers, celebrities and athletes. Prohibit advertising that targets people under 18. Prohibit outdoor advertisements within 300 metres of any location where under 18s regularly gather or be readable/decipherable from within those locations. Limit broadcast advertisements to no more than five 30-second advertisements per 24-hour period, per licensed online casino gambling platform. Prohibit print advertisements appearing as full-page advertisements, or on the front page. Prohibit transit advertising. Prohibit practice casino games or demos. Prohibit sponsorships.

Deep Dive: Market Analysis

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Conclusion

The move towards regulating online casinos in New Zealand represents a significant shift in the country’s approach to gambling. While the new system aims to capture gambling revenue, protect consumers, and prevent harm, it also faces challenges. The key to success will be finding the right balance between economic benefits and social responsibilities.