New Zealand to Regulate Online Casinos with New Licensing Bill

Online casino gambling in New Zealand is heading for a significant shift. The government has officially proposed a new bill to regulate offshore gambling platforms, aiming to license and monitor operators that have long served Kiwi players without oversight. The move is part of a broader initiative to protect consumers, reduce gambling-related harm, and ensure the country can benefit economically from a growing industry.

Why the New Bill Matters for New Zealand

For years, New Zealand players have been accessing offshore casinos that operate in a legal grey area. While technically permitted, these platforms are not regulated by local authorities and do not contribute to tax revenue or adhere to New Zealand’s consumer protection standards. The new bill changes that.

Introduced by the Minister of Internal Affairs, the proposed legislation will establish a regulated online gambling market. Up to 15 licenses will be issued to operators through a competitive auction process, with each permit valid for three years and renewable once. The primary goals are to:

• Reduce gambling harm through stricter controls
• Generate local revenue through licensing fees and duties
• Ensure fair, responsible gaming
• Block access to illegal or non-compliant websites

How the Licensing System Will Work

Under the bill, licensed operators must comply with several key requirements:

• Robust age verification to ensure only adults can play
• Responsible gambling tools, including self-exclusion and deposit limits
• Transparent bonus terms and fair gameplay
• 24/7 player support and structured complaint resolution processes
• Mandatory contribution to a harm-minimization fund (estimated at 1% of revenue)

The Department of Internal Affairs will oversee the regulatory framework and enforce compliance with it. Operators failing to meet the standards risk losing their licenses and could be fined up to NZ$5 million.

Taxation and Economic Impact

The bill proposes a 12% online casino duty, separate from GST, that will apply to licensed platforms. This is expected to generate significant income for the government, which has so far missed out on taxing online casino profits. Proceeds will be used to fund public services and support harm reduction initiatives.

Additionally, the government plans to restrict gambling ads, especially those targeting vulnerable groups and minors. This includes limitations on promotions, bonuses, and the use of influencers or public figures in advertising.

What This Means for Players

If you're a New Zealand-based player, the proposed regulation means greater safety, transparency, and accountability when gambling online. You'll benefit from:

• Clearer bonus terms
• Verified and licensed casinos
• Safer payment options
• Better support if something goes wrong

However, some offshore platforms may choose to exit the New Zealand market rather than pursue licensing. This could reduce the number of available options, but the trade-off is a more secure and regulated environment for everyone.

For now, players can still enjoy popular options that accept Kiwi players. To explore trusted choices, check out our New Zealand Online Casinos, where we list the best licensed and reputable platforms available today.

When Will the Changes Happen?

The legislation is currently in the consultation phase, with stakeholder feedback expected in the coming months. If passed, the government plans to begin issuing licenses and implementing the new rules by April 2026.

Final Thoughts

New Zealand is taking a bold and necessary step toward bringing its online gambling industry out of the shadows. By introducing a clear licensing model and strong consumer protections, the government aims to create a safer and more responsible gambling landscape.

This is big news for Kiwi players and operators alike. Whether you're a casual spinner or a serious poker fan, it's worth staying informed as the rules evolve. And if you're looking to enjoy safe, legal gameplay in the meantime, start with casinos we’ve vetted for the New Zealand market.