Online gambling in New Zealand

The History of Gambling in New Zealand

In New Zealand, all forms of gambling are regulated by the Department of Internal Affairs, also known as Te Tari Taiwhenua. Gambling operators are required to contribute a portion of their profits to the state and organizations dedicated to combating gambling addiction.

Bookmaking, or betting on sports matches, has been illegal in New Zealand since 1920. However, in 1961, the Totalizator Agency Board (TAB) was established, allowing on-course betting on horse racing.

In 1877, the Art Union was founded by the Otago Art Society as a means for individuals and organizations to raise funds for charitable and cultural projects. Due to the small prizes offered, many Kiwis opted to participate in Australia's Tattersall’s Lottery instead.

As a result, the Second Labour Government reviewed New Zealand's lotteries in the late 1950s and introduced the Golden Kiwi Lottery in 1961, offering substantially higher prizes.

Since 1987, the New Zealand Lotteries Commission has overseen the National Lottery. Today, players can also purchase Instant Kiwi scratch cards and participate in daily Keno events. That same year, slot machines, known as pokies, were installed in hotels, bars, and cafes. The maximum jackpots and return-to-player ratios are regulated to ensure fair odds for players.

Since 2009, all pokies must feature an information button or display, informing players of their playtime and losses during the current session. Periodic pop-ups also suggest taking breaks to promote responsible gambling.

Land-based Casinos in New Zealand

New Zealand is home to six land-based casinos, all operated by state-controlled companies. These casinos are:

• Dunedin Casino
• Christchurch Casino
• SkyCity Auckland
• SkyCity Hamilton
• SkyCity Queenstown
• SkyCity Wharf Casino

Online Gambling in New Zealand

In 2003, the Gambling Act was enacted in New Zealand, consolidating the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1988 and the Casino Control Act 1990. This legislation paved the way for online casino gambling, focusing on consumer protection by requiring casinos to set betting, loss, and playtime limits for their players.

The New Zealand Lottery Commission, a state-controlled entity, has held a monopoly over online lottery sales since 2008. However, online pokies, poker, casino games, and sports betting cannot be offered by companies operating solely online within New Zealand.

Despite this, Kiwis can legally access offshore online casino websites, as no law prohibits them from playing for real money on these platforms. Offshore gambling companies are not allowed to advertise explicitly to New Zealand players. The government regularly fines those that do, but players themselves face no penalties for participating.

Only Safe and Reliable Online Casinos are Allowed

Only licensed casinos that offer sufficient consumer protection are allowed to market their offerings to Kiwi players. These casinos must adhere to strict regulations, ensuring they prioritize player safety and responsible gambling. A valid license is mandatory for any casino to legally accept New Zealand players and allow real-money wagers.

Future Developments in Online Gambling in New Zealand

As of now, playing at regulated offshore casino websites is legal for Kiwi players, provided these casinos do not actively advertise to New Zealand residents. However, changes are on the horizon.

The government has recognized the need for updated regulations to better protect players and collect taxes. Starting in 2026, licensed online casinos will be introduced. This initiative, spearheaded by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Miss van Velden, will include strict rules governing advertising, with bans on sponsorships and limits on promotional activities. Only casino games will be regulated; sports betting will remain excluded. We will update this page as more details become available.

Things to Keep in Mind When Online Gambling in New Zealand

Online gambling is accessible from virtually any device, making it crucial to approach it responsibly. Below are tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable gambling experience:

Always Check the True RTP of Pokies

Some unlicensed casinos may offer games with misleading payout ratios. Verify the true RTP (return-to-player) by consulting the casino software provider’s website.

Always Check the License of Overseas Casino Websites

Ensure that the casino has a valid license from a reputable authority, such as the Malta Gaming Authority, Gibraltar Gaming Commission, or UK Gambling Commission.

Avoid Casinos With One-Click Top-Ups

One-click top-ups can lead to overspending. Opt for casinos that allow you to set deposit limits to maintain control over your budget.

Keep Your Credit Card and Personal Details Safe

Only gamble on sites protected by SSL encryption. Look for a green padlock in the browser’s address bar as a sign of security.