New Zealand has put forward a proposal to restrict the number of licenses granted to online casino gambling operators, mandate the implementation of an age verification system, and prohibit advertisements targeting children, as the country seeks to manage the rapidly expanding sector.
Offenders could face fines of up to NZ$5 million ($3 million), with the new regulatory framework expected to be operational by early 2026, according to Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden.
"My objective is not to boost the volume of online gambling, but to ensure that New Zealanders who choose to play casino games online can do so more securely than they currently can," Van Velden stated in a release.
"Presently, New Zealanders have access to and gamble on numerous offshore gambling websites. By establishing a regulatory system, my aim is to direct customers towards up to fifteen licensed operators."
In July, the government announced plans to issue licenses for online casinos, requiring operators to limit their offerings to online casino games, excluding sports betting or lottery products, and setting a minimum age of 18 for players.
Currently, online casino gambling in New Zealand is unregulated, meaning consumer protection measures do not apply.
The convenience and accessibility of online platforms, coupled with the rising popularity of smartphones, have led more New Zealanders to gamble online, according to research firm Statista. The revenue from these platforms is projected to grow annually by approximately 6% between 2024 and 2029.
Additional regulations will be formulated based on the existing gambling law, which will aid in finalizing rules on advertising and consumer protection requirements, Van Velden noted. The government plans to introduce the bill in parliament next year.
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