Posted by New Zealand’s gambling laws may be some of the strictest in the world, but that hasn’t stopped Kiwis from diving into online casinos and playing for real money.
Nearly 75% of New Zealanders gamble regularly, according to official estimates. Lotteries top the list of popular games, followed by casino games and sports betting. Poker and bingo, however, are far less favored in the country.
While local New Zealand gambling houses do have a following, they can’t compete with the allure of offshore online casinos. Many Kiwis turn to these offshore sites for their favorite games, but this comes with risks. Unlike domestic casinos, offshore sites lack regulation, so it’s essential to stick to reliable platforms that ensure safe gaming experiences.
Regulation Set for 2026
As of now, playing at online casinos in New Zealand is legal, and players can cash out their winnings with ease. Win big on a slot machine? You can transfer your jackpot to your bank account without facing taxes.
But by 2026, you won’t need to worry about whether playing at online casinos is legal. The government has solid plans in place to regulate the market, ensuring safety for Kiwi players.
The Rise of Online Gambling
Online gambling has become a widespread activity in New Zealand. Industry experts predict that the annual turnover could reach nearly a billion New Zealand dollars, covering all forms of gambling.
Slots dominate as the most popular casino games, followed closely by table games like blackjack and roulette. Sports betting also sees huge activity. While lotteries remain popular locally, they don’t have a strong presence online.
Secure Gaming and Tax Revenue
Since the early 2000s, remote gambling has grown rapidly. In response, the New Zealand government is stepping in to regulate the online casino market by 2026. This move not only ensures a secure gaming environment but also promotes responsible gambling. Additionally, it allows the government to tax the income generated by online gambling companies.
Current Gambling Laws
The Gambling Act of 2003 regulates land-based casinos, sports betting, and lotteries, but it largely ignores online casinos. The law on gambling games bans the promotion of remote gambling by companies based in New Zealand, but it doesn’t restrict Kiwis from playing at overseas online casinos.
As a result, many New Zealanders gamble on offshore sites without facing legal consequences. There is even a form of tolerance on the part of the New Zealand authorities. Because of this legal gray area, there is a large market for Kiwi players.
Upcoming Changes
With online gambling booming, new regulations are on the horizon. In May 2024, lawmakers introduced a proposal to bring clarity to the situation. If approved, the law will allow overseas online casinos to apply for licenses to operate in New Zealand.
This shift will also lead to the creation of a Remote Gaming Commission, which will oversee the NZ market.
The Role of the Remote Gaming Commission
The Remote Gaming Commission will act as an independent body, issuing licenses to online casinos and regulating the entire industry. It will have the power to revoke licenses from operators who fail to follow the rules and impose hefty fines on those who engage in illegal practices.
This will ensure a more secure and trustworthy online gambling experience for New Zealanders.
Benefits for New Zealand
The Ministry of Internal Affairs, led by Brooke van Velden, will take charge of regulating the online casino market. The ministry will issue gaming licenses and ensure the new 2026 regulations bring jobs and tax revenue to the country.
Private operators will face a 12% tax on their revenues, with part of the proceeds going toward promoting responsible gambling.
Online casinos will also need to offer tools that allow players to set limits on their spending and time online. Players struggling with gambling addiction can take advantage of a self-exclusion feature.
The Future of Online Casinos in New Zealand
By 2026, New Zealand will have a fully regulated and transparent online casino industry. Players will enjoy secure and fair gaming environments. While casino games rely on chance, the government will introduce tools to help players manage their risks and avoid spending more than they can afford.
Rather than banning online gambling, New Zealand’s government has chosen to regulate it. This approach ensures that players can enjoy reliable gaming options while curbing the spread of illegal platforms.
Big Names Entering the Market
As New Zealand’s online casino market opens up, expect to see major names in the industry joining in. SkyCity has already announced its intention to apply for a license, and global giants like Bet365 and LeoVegas are eager to get a foothold in the Kiwi market. Other well-known brands like Luxury Casino and Jackpot City, pioneers in online gambling, are also expected to enter the scene.
