New Zealand Gambling Commission
The New Zealand Gambling Commission is an independent decision-making body overseeing all gambling-related licensing and enforcement activities in New Zealand. It processes casino licensing applications, handles appeals related to enforcement decisions by the Secretary of Internal Affairs, and supervises business operations within the gambling industry. Any gambling venue offering gaming machines must obtain a license from the Gambling Commission.
In essence, the New Zealand Gambling Commission is responsible for:
- Approving and renewing casino applications.
- Reviewing changes to agreements by licensed casino operators.
- Enforcing decisions, including revoking or altering casino license conditions.
- Overseeing regulatory actions on both online and offline gambling activities in collaboration with the Department of Internal Affairs.
- Advising the Minister of Internal Affairs on problem gambling levies.
- Reporting to the Minister on performance and compliance with the Gambling Act 2003.
The Commission collaborates with the Department of Internal Affairs to foster safe gambling environments and regulate measures aimed at reducing gambling harm. Together, they ensure gambling across New Zealand remains honest and fair.
The New Zealand Gambling Commission's headquarters is located at Level 2, 41 Bath Street, Parnell, Auckland, and can be contacted at +64 9 353 7223.
By Amelia Smith - Last modified 15/01/2025 - Estimated reading time: 6 minutes.
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Online Gambling Regulation in New Zealand
Since the enactment of the Gambling Act 2003, New Zealand-based companies have been prohibited from offering online casino gaming, gaming machines, or any form of games of chance. Consequently, only "offshore casinos" can provide services to Kiwi players. An exception is SkyCity Casino, which, despite its physical presence in New Zealand, operates its online casino registered in Malta.
Under the current legislation, the New Zealand Lottery Commission offers online lottery games, and TAB provides legal online betting on horse racing. Residents are permitted to gamble for real money at licensed online casinos based outside of New Zealand, provided they include their winnings in their tax filings. A problem gambling levy applies to all profits.
With over 1,000 online casinos available, distinguishing reputable platforms from dubious ones can be challenging for newcomers. It's crucial to select a licensed casino that promotes responsible gambling, offers games with verified payouts, and undergoes routine audits. Many offshore-licensed websites also feature non-casino gambling activities, such as bingo, lottery games, and skill-based titles.
Some international online casinos incorporate "New Zealand" or "NZ" in their branding or use .co.nz URL extensions. However, none of them are actually local New Zealand businesses; they tailor their marketing towards Kiwi players and obtain licenses from other jurisdictions.
Therefore, thorough research is essential before signing up at an online casino. Our experts have conducted extensive reviews of many online casinos available to New Zealand residents.
All the online casinos listed below hold a valid gaming license issued by reputable international gaming authorities and have established stellar reputations among New Zealand and global players. Based on the current Gambling Act, Kiwis can legally and safely play any gaming machine offered by these operators.
International Gaming Authorities
Since the Gambling Act 2003 restricts local companies from offering gaming machines online, New Zealand residents must find trusted websites that operate offshore. Various international authorities are responsible for licensing and enforcing gambling regulations. Below, we highlight some of the most trusted international regulators that oversee online casinos accessible to Kiwi players.
Malta Gaming Authority
The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is a globally respected regulatory body. It issues licenses to online gambling companies and sets stringent standards for operators. The MGA mandates that licensed platforms provide problem gambling tools and comply with high levels of transparency and fairness.
Gibraltar Gambling Commission
The Gibraltar Gambling Commission oversees remote gambling licensing and regulation. Its reputation as a tier-one regulator ensures that casinos under its jurisdiction are reliable and adhere to robust responsible gambling strategies.
Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission
The Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission has been regulating gambling since 1962. Its longstanding reputation makes it a trustworthy choice for licensing. Many operators choose the Isle of Man for its favorable tax conditions and rigorous regulatory oversight.
Kahnawake Gaming Commission
The Kahnawake Gaming Commission regulates both online and land-based gambling from the Mohawk Territory of Kahnawake. Its strict licensing policies ensure fair practices and reliability, particularly for platforms with a North American focus.
Curaçao Gaming Control Board
The Curaçao Gaming Control Board is a popular regulator for international gambling websites. It provides licenses to online casinos, lotteries, and poker rooms, allowing them to operate globally. However, its licenses are not valid in some jurisdictions like the UK and USA.
Online Sportsbook in New Zealand
The Gambling Act 2003 grants a monopoly on sports betting to the NZ Racing Board (TAB NZ). This organization provides odds on local and international sports, offering parlay and single-game betting options. TAB NZ operates under stringent regulation from the New Zealand Gambling Commission.
Although TAB NZ is the sole licensed New Zealand-based sportsbook, Kiwi players can access offshore bookmakers for a wider range of options. However, it is essential to ensure these platforms are reputable and licensed by trusted international regulators.
New Zealand Casino Numbers
Gambling is a popular activity in New Zealand. Pokies remain the most favored form of gambling, followed by lotteries and gaming machines outside casinos. The COVID-19 pandemic further boosted the popularity of online gambling and sports betting.
| Type of Gambling | 2021 - 2022 | 2022 - 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| Sports Betting through TAB NZ | NZ$380 million | NZ$376 million |
| Lottery Tickets via NZ Lotteries Commission | NZ$654 million | NZ$710 million |
| Gaming Machines outside Casinos | NZ$833 million | NZ$1,070 million |
| Pokies and Table Games inside Casinos | NZ$387 million | NZ$604 million |
| Total | NZ$2.254 billion | NZ$2.761 billion |
Frequently Asked Questions about the New Zealand Gambling Commission
What is the New Zealand Gambling Commission?
The New Zealand Gambling Commission is an independent regulatory authority responsible for overseeing and regulating gambling activities in New Zealand. Its primary role is to ensure that gambling is fair, transparent, and conducted without illegal practices.
What are the responsibilities of the New Zealand Gambling Commission?
The Commission has a wide range of responsibilities, including granting licenses, ensuring compliance with gambling laws, adjudicating disputes between operators and consumers, and offering advice to the government on gambling-related matters.
How does the New Zealand Gambling Commission ensure fair gambling?
The Commission undertakes thorough inspections and audits of gambling operations, investigates complaints, and takes necessary actions against operators found in violation of the regulations. By enforcing strict guidelines, they ensure that all gambling activities uphold integrity and fairness.
Can I lodge a complaint with the New Zealand Gambling Commission?
Yes, if you believe that a gambling operator has violated the regulations or if you have disputes that cannot be resolved directly with the operator, you can file a complaint with the Commission for investigation and resolution.
Is online gambling regulated by the New Zealand Gambling Commission?
The Commission primarily regulates land-based gambling. Online gambling that originates within New Zealand is not permitted, but New Zealanders can legally play on international online gambling sites. The Commission's role in online gambling is more advisory and interpretative regarding the law.
Author and fact checker: Amelia Smith
Expertise: Casino Games, Croupier and related topics.
Experience: Writing since 2019 with over 15 years in the gambling industry, Amelia has spoken at multiple events.
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