Gambling Law in New Zealand
New Zealand’s approach to online gambling is undergoing significant changes. As of June 28, 2026, the country has implemented a monopoly on online sports and racing betting, granting exclusive rights to TAB New Zealand. This means that New Zealanders can only legally place bets on these events through TAB NZ, and engaging with offshore operators for such activities is now prohibited. (Gambling Law)
However, the landscape for online casinos is shifting. On June 30, 2026, the Online Casino Gambling Bill was introduced in Parliament, aiming to establish a regulated online casino market. This bill proposes:
- Issuance of up to 15 licenses for online casino operators.
- Implementation of harm minimization measures and consumer protection regulations.
- Prohibition of unlicensed online casinos from operating in New Zealand starting July 1, 2026
Until the new regulations come into effect, New Zealanders may still access offshore online casinos. However, these platforms are unregulated locally, which can pose risks related to player protection and fair play.
Understanding Gambling Classes in New Zealand
New Zealand classifies gambling activities into four categories based on prize size and turnover:
| Class | Prize Limit | Turnover Limit | License Required | Notes |
| 1 | Up to $500 | Up to $500 | No | Charitable purposes only |
| 2 | Up to $5,000 | Up to $25,000 | No | Charitable purposes only |
| 3 | Over $5,000 | Up to $500,000 | Yes | Requires Ministry of Internal Affairs license |
| 4 | Over $5,000 | Over $500,000 | Yes | Requires Ministry of Internal Affairs license |
Classes 1 and 2 do not require a license if the proceeds are used for charitable purposes and no commission is taken.
Player Protection and Responsible Gambling
The New Zealand government is committed to minimizing gambling harm. The Strategy to Prevent and Minimise Gambling Harm 2026/26 to 2027/28 outlines initiatives to:
- Promote public health by preventing and minimizing gambling harm.
- Provide services to treat and assist problem gamblers and their families.
- Conduct independent scientific research related to gambling — Ministry of Health NZ
Licensed online casinos will be required to contribute a percentage of their profits to the problem gambling levy, supporting these initiatives.
Looking Ahead
The introduction of the Online Casino Gambling Bill marks a significant step towards a regulated online gambling environment in New Zealand. As the legislation progresses, it’s essential for players to stay informed about the changes and choose platforms that will operate within the new legal framework.
For more information on the upcoming regulations and how they may affect your online gaming experience, visit the Department of Internal Affairs website.
Responsible Gambling Resources