The interior minister, Brook van Velden, announced that the New Zealand government has adopted a comprehensive approach to regulating online casinos. Scheduled to start in early 2026, the new system focuses on minimizing damage, ensuring strong tax collection, and providing significant consumer protection. “There will be a licensing system for online casinos, where operators must adhere to a set of standards before they can serve New Zealanders. It would be illegal for unlicensed operators to serve New Zealanders,” Mr. van Velden said.
Details on licensing and consumer protection measures:
According to an official press release, the proposed licensing system is optional, and will depend on providing a limited number of permits through competitive auctions, being valid for three years, and meeting ongoing regulatory requirements. The new rules will set a minimum gambling age of 18 and limit licensed operators to offer only online casino games, excluding sports betting and lottery products. In addition, it will be strictly regulated, and sponsorship by online casinos will continue to be banned, while ads from licensed operators will be newly allowed.
Van Velden highlighted the importance of public engagement in shaping these regulations, noting that “we expect a new regulatory system to be implemented from the beginning of 2026 and the public will have the opportunity to provide feedback during the selection committee process.” The move has already been supported by industry insiders, including Sky City Entertainment Group, who praised the government’s responsibility and emphasis on community benefits. According to iGaming Business reports, Sky City CEO Jason Walbridge expressed support for limited measures on advertising and licensing numbers on LinkedIn, highlighting the possibility of increasing domestic revenue retention. “A lot of money that needs to stay in New Zealand is going offshore right now with taxes and community benefits. We hope this will be a key part of our future framework,” he said.
The impact of the new legislation on the national gambling environment:
The regulatory overhaul marks a significant shift for New Zealand’s gambling sector, coupled with changes in government leadership and previous legislative clashes over offshore gambling revenue and GST collection. The new framework promises to curb the flow of offshore gambling funds, ensuring more revenue stays in the country to support public services and community initiatives. This comes as part of a broader effort to boost other gambling sectors, such as horse racing, which has seen substantial reforms and partnerships aimed at sustainability and growth.
As New Zealand prepares to launch a new regulatory regime for online casinos, governments, industry stakeholders and the public are keeping a close eye on the changes to bring about the intended benefits of a safer and more responsible gambling environment that positively contributes to the economy. 카지노사이트 모음