New Zealand has moved a step closer to finalising a new system for the regulation of online casino gambling. 

There is currently no existing framework to regulate igaming, meaning that there are no player protection and harm prevention measures in place – leading to some questionable practices from offshore operators like preventing customers from making withdrawals.  

Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden, commented: “A new Online Gambling Bill will be drafted with the purpose to regulate online casino gambling to facilitate a safer and compliant regulated online gambling market. More importantly, it will prevent and minimise online gambling harm and limit opportunities for crime and dishonesty.”

Plans were first laid out earlier in July, with the Government setting 2026 as the deadline for the enforcement of the new regulatory framework, which would minimise harm and set up a tax collection system. 

In the latest development, Ms van Velden further explained that the new regulations envision to licence of up to 15 operators, introduce stringent advertising rules regarding children, and penalties of up to NZ $5mn (€2.8mn) when a breach is found. 

“Currently, New Zealanders can and do gamble on thousands of offshore gambling websites. By introducing a regulatory system my intention is to channel customers towards up to 15 licensed operators.

“Further regulations will be developed on the detailed rules around advertising, as well as harm minimisation and consumer protection requirements. This is the same approach used in the existing Gambling Act and will give us more flexibility to adjust the regulations where necessary.

“The new regulatory system will be in place by early 2026. I look forward to taking the Bill through Parliament next year and hearing feedback from the public during the Select Committee stage.”

Source