New Zealand to Grant 15 Online Casino Licences Under Government Reform Plan

New Zealand.- July 4th 2025 www.zonadeazar.com Online Casino Market Opening by 2026; Advertising and Licensing to Be Strictly Regulated

New Zealand has officially announced plans to launch a multi-licence online casino market by 2026, allowing 15 operators to legally enter the sector under a new regulatory framework. The reform, introduced by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) and Minister Brooke van Velden, aims to prioritize consumer protection, harm minimization, and tax collection.

The proposed law, known as the Online Casino Gambling Bill, also seeks to limit the influence of unregulated offshore sites and unlicensed marketing through strict advertising rules and fines up to NZ$5 million.

Competitive Auction for Licences Expected to Attract Global Interest

The 15 licences will be awarded through a competitive auction process, inviting bids from both domestic and international operators. With New Zealand’s high-income economy and growing iGaming interest, global online casino brands are expected to participate.

Applicants will be required to submit detailed business plans to the New Zealand Gambling Commission (NZGC) and comply with strict consumer safeguards.

Stakeholder Reactions Mixed Amid Concerns Over Market Disruption

While some welcome the regulation, others — like SkyCity Entertainment Group, which operates New Zealand’s largest land-based casinos — have raised concerns. The company urged the government to reduce the number of licences from 15 to avoid oversaturation and risk to player safety.

In contrast, Entain, the exclusive operator of TAB NZ and New Zealand’s only legal online sports betting provider, has remained relatively neutral, likely due to its secure position and existing 25-year contract with TAB NZ.

Online Betting Tightens as Online Casino Market Opens

Interestingly, the new casino regulation coincides with stricter controls on online sports betting. Recent amendments to the Racing Industry Act 2020 have now made TAB NZ the sole legal provider of online sports wagering.

The Online Casino Gambling Bill is currently headed to parliamentary select committee, where New Zealanders will be invited to provide input. More detailed advertising and consumer protection rules are expected to be clarified during this legislative process.

Edited by: @MaiaDigital www.zonadeazar.com