According to the Minister of Internal Affairs, Brooke van Velden, this means it will be illegal for unlicensed operators to target players in the country.
The government has agreed on a high-level approach to online casino regulation. This, it said, is designed to minimize harm, support tax collection, and provide consumer protections to New Zealand players. According to the Minister of Internal Affairs, Brooke van Velden, this means it will be illegal for unlicensed operators to target players in the country.
New Zealand Online Casino Licences Issued via Auction
While the government’s plans are currently being developed, Van Velden shared some details of the regulatory framework. Her department will be responsible for regulating New Zealand online casino operators. A limited number of licenses will be available through an auction, subject to the bidders meeting regulatory requirements. Players must be 18 or older.
While “strictly limited” advertising for licensees will be permitted, casinos must be fenced off from other gambling products. Sports betting and lottery must not be offered alongside iCasino, the New Zealand government said.
“This is not intended to increase the amount of gambling New Zealanders do but to ensure operators meet requirements for consumer protection and harm minimization, as well as paying tax,” Van Velden said.
There will be an opportunity for the public to provide feedback on the regulatory plans during the select committee process. The government intends to launch the new regulatory framework for online casinos in New Zealand by 2026.
Market Response
Casino operator SkyCity Entertainment Group has already voiced its support. “We remain supportive of the regulation of online casino gaming in New Zealand, with an emphasis on strong host responsibility and delivering community benefits in New Zealand,” SkyCity said.
In a LinkedIn post shortly after the news broke, the operator’s CEO Jason Walbridge particularly welcomed the plans to restrict license numbers and advertising.
“SkyCity has long supported regulating online play to minimize harm and protect Kiwis,” he said. “Limiting advertising and the number of operators in New Zealand is a good way of doing this. Currently, there is a lot of money going offshore that should be staying in New Zealand as tax and community benefits. We hope this will be a key part of any future framework.”