New Zealand regulator seeks operator interest in regulated iGaming market
The New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) has issued a call for online gambling operators seeking to secure a licence in the country’s new regulated iGaming market to register their interest ahead of time.
New Zealand is in the process of creating a regulatory framework for a legal online gambling market which is expected to launch in 2026.
Several leading brands have already expressed an interest in operating in the country once the market opens. 888, Betway and Bet365 all previously stated that they would be keen on securing a licence.
Now, the DIA, which is set to regulate iGaming in New Zealand, has issued a call for other interested parties. Online Gambling Implementation Programme Director Trina Lowry said this will help the government ensure a safe and fair gambling environment.
“As we continue to design and implement the system, we want to ensure it is clear, efficient and supportive for potential operators,” Lowry said. “To help us achieve this, we want to engage with operators to understand what information would be most helpful as the process unfolds and understand their experience and needs.”
New Zealand committed to protecting players
Lowry said online gambling is not a new concept for players in New Zealand. Online casino is not currently permitted but thousands of consumers gamble with offshore, unlicensed operators.
However, the country is seeking to turn this around with the launch of its legal market. For this licences will be issued by a competitive process, with operators required to meet a host of regulatory requirements.
Among these will be to have in place protection measures to help prevent gambling-related harm among players. Such measures, Lowry said, are not required with offshore operators and consumers who continue to use these websites could be putting themselves at risk of harm.
“Regulating this sector will help protect consumers, minimise gambling harm and provide regulatory oversight of online casino gambling providers operating in New Zealand,” she said.
Earlier in June, Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey announced an increased investment of NZ$81 million (US$48 million) to support an updated strategy for minimising gambling harm.
Services will be funded through the new Problem Gambling Levy Regulations, paid for by non-casino gaming machine operators, casinos, TAB and lottery monopoly Lotto NZ. Online operators are also expected to contribute to the strategy.
There is also potential for advertising rules to be relaxed in New Zealand. At present, it is not permitted to advertise or promote online gambling in any form, as per the Gambling Act 2003.
However, should the legal iGaming market open as expected, legislation proposes making it legal for licensed operators to advertise online casino gambling. This, supporters said, would help players distinguish between licensed and illegal operators.