Online casino operators in New Zealand may face fines of up to NZD5 million ($3 million) if they launch an unlicensed website, according to new regulations being proposed by the government.
According to Radio New Zealand, the forthcoming framework will limit the number of licenses to just 15, with a public register to keep track of approved operators. Those who violate the rules will receive take-down notices and may be reported to international regulators, potentially jeopardizing their licenses in other jurisdictions.
To ensure player safety, licensed operators will need to implement harm prevention measures and robust age verification systems. Additionally, advertising to children will be strictly prohibited.
Currently, online casino gambling operates without regulation in New Zealand, leaving consumers unprotected. Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden emphasized that the aim is not to increase online gambling but to provide a safer environment for those who choose to engage in it.
“My goal is to ensure that New Zealanders can play casino games online more safely than they can today”, van Velden stated. “At present, many New Zealanders are gambling on numerous offshore sites. By establishing a regulatory system, I intend to guide customers towards 15 licensed operators.”
Legislation to implement these changes is expected to move forward next year, with the new regulatory system anticipated to be operational by early 2026.
