New Zealand is moving into the next phase of its online casino gambling framework following the implementation of the Online Casino Gambling Act 2026 on May 1st, with authorities outlining a three-stage licensing process, stricter enforcement measures, and a limited number of permits to regulate offshore operators and protect consumers.
The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) said the licensing process will begin with expressions of interest (EOI), followed by a competitive auction and then a formal license application stage. The Secretary for Internal Affairs will invite EOIs in July 2026 through a public notice, with successful applicants progressing to an auction to determine who may apply for a license.
Under the framework, up to 15 brand-specific licenses will be issued, each valid for up to three years with the option of a single renewal of up to five additional years. A single entity may not hold significant influence over more than three licenses, and each license applies to one brand only.
Auction process and timeline
According to a recent DIA document providing further guidance on obtaining an online casino gambling license, the auction stage will be open only to applicants whose EOIs are accepted. These participants will compete in a process designed to determine eligibility to proceed to the licensing stage. The government has not yet disclosed the exact timing of each stage, noting that ‘exact timings of the three-stage licensing process will be made available once the regulations are made public.’
Following a successful auction outcome, applicants will be invited to submit a formal license application, in which they must demonstrate compliance with New Zealand’s regulatory requirements, including financial, operational, and integrity standards.
The guidance states that once a license is granted, operators must make their gambling platform available in New Zealand within 90 days and ensure it is operational for at least 270 days in any 12-month period.
Advertising restrictions and enforcement
The new regulatory regime introduces stricter enforcement provisions, particularly around advertising. A prohibition on advertising unlicensed online casino gambling has taken effect, backed by expanded enforcement powers.
Operators that fail to comply may face takedown orders and financial penalties of up to NZ$5 million ($3.0 million). The DIA has also indicated that compliance history may be considered during the licensing process.
In addition, any operator that does not obtain a license or exemption must cease offering online casino services to New Zealand customers by December 1st, 2026. Non-compliant operators after this date will be subject to enforcement action, including penalties and removal orders.
Entry requirements and EOI process
Entities seeking to participate in the process must submit a separate EOI for each brand and provide detailed information, including ownership structure, financial capacity, management details, and any past regulatory or advertising breaches.
Applications will be submitted through the Government Electronic Tender Service (GETS), and applicants must demonstrate access to sufficient capital, a clean record of offenses involving dishonesty within the past seven years, and no adverse impact on New Zealand’s international reputation.
The government said the framework aims to create a ‘safe, fair and well-controlled online gambling environment,’ noting that New Zealanders already access hundreds of offshore gambling websites.
