Is Online Gambling Legal in NZ? Complete 2025 Guide

The gambling landscape will see most important changes soon. New Zealand’s government has decided to regulate online casinos through a new licensing system by 2026. Kiwi casino enthusiasts already spend millions of dollars each year in the online gambling industry.

Our detailed guide covers the current legal status of online gambling in New Zealand and the upcoming regulatory changes. Players will find practical advice about legal and safe gambling practices. We’ll also explain how Lotto NZ and TAB’s authorized services fit into these regulations and what they mean for Kiwi players.

Current Legal Status of Online Gambling in NZ

The Gambling Act 2003 is the life-blood of New Zealand’s gambling regulations. This act sets strict guidelines for both traditional and online gambling activities. The law prohibits gambling unless the Act specifically allows it ^[1].

The Gambling Act 2003

This legislation wants to control gambling growth, prevent harm, and ensure fair play. The Act bans remote interactive gambling, which includes gambling through communication devices ^[1]. Online casino websites and internet lottery ticket sales face heavy penalties. Organizations can be fined up to NZD 85,280.51 while individuals face fines of NZD 17,056.10 ^[1].

Legal vs illegal gambling activities

A clear line exists between authorized and unauthorized gambling activities. Most online gambling operations from within New Zealand are illegal ^[2]. In spite of that, an interesting exception exists. Offshore gambling sites can’t legally operate from New Zealand, but Kiwis can legally use these platforms ^[3].

The Act also controls gambling advertisements strictly. Anyone who publishes or arranges overseas gambling advertisements in New Zealand faces fines up to NZD 17,056.10 ^[1]. This rule applies to any message that promotes gambling operators or activities based outside New Zealand.

Role of TAB and Lotto NZ

TAB NZ and Lotto NZ are the only state-authorized providers of online gambling services in the digital world ^[4]. This two-company control has a strong market presence. TAB NZ generates 90% of revenue in New Zealand’s racing industry ^[1].

The online gambling sector has grown substantially. Online gambling spending jumped by 84% between 2015 and 2017, from NZD 225.14 million to NZD 414.46 million, not counting LOTTO NZ and TAB NZ ^[4].

Big changes lie ahead. The government plans to implement a new regulatory framework for online casinos by 2026 ^[5]. This system will offer 15 licenses through auction ^[6]. Licensed operators must meet strict requirements:

Integrity and harm minimization standards
Financial solvency requirements
Key person checks
Transparency of ownership
Compliance history verification ^[6]

The new system will create revenue through several channels:

A 15% GST
12% online casino duty
An estimated 1.3% problem gambling levy ^[6]

These changes mark the first major update to New Zealand’s gambling laws since 2003. The revision addresses technological advances in online gambling that nobody could have predicted when the original law was written ^[7].

Legal Online Gambling Options for Kiwis

“Growing competition from offshore online betting operators poses a significant threat to the TAB NZ model.” — Winston Peters, Racing Minister, New Zealand

New Zealand offers both domestic and international gambling platforms that operate under different regulatory frameworks. The legal online gambling scene in New Zealand keeps changing, with new regulations set to roll out in 2026.

Licensed domestic operators

Right now, Lotto NZ and TAB NZ are the only two authorized providers that operate within New Zealand. These state-authorized providers have exclusive rights to offer online gambling services ^[7]. TAB NZ dominates sports betting and controls about 90% of the racing industry’s revenue.

A new 12% offshore gambling duty will take effect from July 2024. This tax applies to online gambling services from operators outside New Zealand ^[8]. Sports and racing betting amounts don’t fall under this tax since these activities already pay ‘consumption charges’ to the Department of Internal Affairs.

Offshore gambling sites

Kiwis can legally use offshore gambling platforms despite strict domestic rules. Research shows that over 75% of adult New Zealanders take part in some form of gambling. The market should reach NZD 1023.37 million each year by 2027.

The government takes a relaxed approach to offshore gambling sites because:

These platforms operate outside New Zealand’s jurisdiction
No laws stop Kiwis from using these services
Current laws focus on controlling domestic operators instead of individual players

Big changes are coming in early 2026:

A new licensing system will offer 15 licenses through auction
Licensed operators must meet strict criteria that include:
Consumer protection standards
Harm minimization requirements
Age verification systems
Advertising restrictions

The Department of Internal Affairs will manage this regulatory system. Operators could face fines up to NZD 8.53 million if they break player protection rules. The new framework will still ban online casino sponsorships.

Many major operators want to get these licenses:

Global brands like 888, Bet365, and Betway
Local venues such as SkyCity, Christchurch Casino, and Grand Casino Dunedin
Class 4 societies and other gambling entities

Today, 36 online operators pay Goods and Services Tax to New Zealand’s government. The top 15 operators make up more than 90% of online gambling GST in recent years. These numbers show that high channeling rates and maximum revenue don’t need many operators.

Understanding NZ Gambling Laws

New Zealand’s gambling regulations include detailed guidelines about age limits, taxation policies, and advertising standards. These rules protect vulnerable people and ensure fair gaming practices on traditional and digital platforms.

Age restrictions

New Zealand sets different minimum ages for various gambling activities:

Casino entry and gaming: 20 years
Sports betting and horse racing through TAB: 18 years
Lottery tickets and scratch cards: 18 years
Daily Keno tickets: 17 years

The year 2026 brings a change. Online gambling operators must use resilient age verification systems to verify players are at least 18 years old ^[6]. This change creates consistent age restrictions across digital platforms.

Taxation requirements

Major changes to gambling taxation take effect from July 2024:

A 12% offshore gambling duty applies to online gambling services
15% GST plus the offshore gambling duty adds up to 25% on gross betting revenue
Tax returns must be filed quarterly:
October 28 for September period
January 28 for December period
May 7 for March period
July 28 for June period

Recreational players don’t pay tax on their winnings. Professional gamblers face different rules when gambling provides their main income. To name just one example, professional poker players must report their winnings as taxable income when poker serves as their primary income source.

Advertising regulations

The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) enforces strict rules through its Gambling Advertising Code. The key rules state:

Ads must not target children or young people
Ads must show social responsibility
Terms and conditions must be included or referenced
Ads cannot promote gambling as a fix for money problems

Strict rules apply to offshore gambling operators’ advertising. Anyone who publishes or arranges overseas gambling ads in New Zealand risks penalties up to NZD 17,056.10 ^[1]. The rules allow some exceptions:

Tourism ads that mention casinos in passing
Promotions of gambling equipment for industry buyers
Health messages about gambling prevention ^[1]

The 2026 regulatory framework brings new advertising guidelines. Licensed operators need approval for their advertising strategies before running them ^[6]. The new framework continues to ban online casino sponsorships ^[6].

The Department of Internal Affairs watches over these regulations closely. They make sure operators follow current and upcoming rules. Breaking these guidelines can lead to heavy penalties – up to NZD 8.53 million for serious violations ^[19].

Upcoming Changes in NZ Gambling Laws

“There will be a licensing system for online casinos, where operators will need to comply with a set of criteria before they will be able to offer services to New Zealanders. It will be illegal for unlicensed operators to offer services to New Zealanders.” — Brooke van Velden, Minister of Internal Affairs, New Zealand

New Zealand’s online gambling world will see major changes as the government plans to roll out complete regulations by early 2026. These changes will create a safer and more controlled environment for online casino gaming. The regulations will prevent harm and reduce criminal activities.

New licensing framework

The Department of Internal Affairs will manage a groundbreaking licensing system with several changes:

A maximum of 15 licenses will be available through auction ^[5]
Operators must meet strict requirements to get licenses:
Mandatory age verification systems
Consumer protection measures
Harm minimization protocols
Financial solvency checks
Ownership transparency standards

The new framework sets heavy penalties. Operators who break regulations face fines up to NZD 8.53 million. This approach will guide players toward licensed platforms instead of thousands of unregulated offshore sites.

The framework’s financial aspects include:

15% GST on gambling revenue
12% online casino duty
Approximately 1.3% problem gambling levy

Recent surveys show that 80% of New Zealanders support regulating online gambling. The TAB reports that Kiwis lose NZD 315.54 million each year to offshore operators.

Expected timeline

A well-laid-out schedule shows the following sequence:

Legislative Phase (2025):
Bill introduction to Parliament: April 2025
Public feedback during Select Committee stage
Bill enactment: End of 2025
Implementation Phase (2026):
February 2026: Launch of vetting and auction process
April 2026: Licensed operators commence trading
Early 2026: Complete regulatory system activation

The Ministry of Health’s Strategy to Prevent and Minimize Gambling Harm will line up with these changes. New levy rates will take effect from July 2025 ^[4]. This coordinated approach will give complete player protection measures in all gambling sectors.

Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden stresses that increasing online gambling isn’t the main goal. The focus remains on creating safer options for New Zealanders who choose to play casino games online. The system bans ads that appeal to children and requires strong age verification protocols.

The regulations focus on several key areas:

Prevention of gambling harm
Consumer protection standards
Tax collection mechanisms
Crime prevention measures
Advertising restrictions

These changes mark the most important update to New Zealand’s gambling laws since the Gambling Act 2003. The government wants to establish a balanced approach through careful regulation and oversight. This protects players while recognizing online gambling’s place in today’s digital world ^[7].

How to Gamble Legally and Safely in NZ

Your online gambling experience needs proper platform selection, payment methods, and security protocols. The digital world of New Zealand’s gambling continues to change, making these elements more significant for responsible gaming.

Choosing licensed platforms

You should verify licensing credentials before using any online gambling platform. TAB and Lotto NZ are the only authorized domestic providers ^[1]. Respected authorities that license offshore platforms include:

Malta Gaming Authority
UK Gambling Commission
Gibraltar Regulatory Authority

These regulators maintain strict standards for fair play, secure transactions, and responsible gambling practices. New Zealand plans to introduce its own licensing system in 2026, with 15 licenses available through auction.

Payment methods

Secure financial transactions are the foundations of safe online gambling. New Zealand players often use these payment options:

Traditional methods:
Debit/credit cards
Bank transfers
Mobile banking
Digital solutions:
E-wallets (Skrill, Neteller)
Prepaid cards
Cryptocurrency options

The platform’s transaction fees and processing times deserve your attention. Your winnings might get affected by withdrawal fees on some platforms ^[25]. A low-limit credit card or dedicated gambling account can provide better security ^[2].

Security measures

Your personal and financial information needs multiple security layers. The best platforms should have:

SSL encryption technology for data protection
Two-factor authentication for account access
Regular security audits by independent agencies
Clear privacy policies and data handling procedures

The Department of Internal Affairs monitors gambling activities and can impose fines up to NZD 85,280.51 for organizations violating regulations ^[1]. The best platforms should:

Display valid security certificates
Employ Random Number Generators (RNGs)
Undergo regular audits by testing agencies like eCOGRA
Maintain transparent operational policies

Tools like Betblocker or Gamban can help you manage your gambling activities better ^[2]. These applications let you restrict access to gambling websites whenever needed.

Note that offshore gambling remains legal for New Zealand residents, but these platforms operate outside domestic jurisdiction ^[7]. Your legal protections will depend on the host country’s regulations ^[1]. A thorough research and careful platform selection will ensure a safe gambling experience.

Conclusion

New Zealand’s online gambling scene faces a vital turning point. TAB NZ and Lotto NZ remain the only authorized domestic providers right now, but the industry will soon see major changes. The new regulatory framework planned for 2026 will bring 15 licensed operators, tight oversight, and detailed harm prevention measures to protect players better.

The government shows its steadfast dedication to player safety through these upcoming changes. Licensed platforms need to follow strict rules about age checks, consumer protection, and responsible gaming. The new tax structure combines 15% GST with 12% gambling duty to collect revenue properly while keeping the industry viable.

Kiwi players must put safety first when gambling online. They should pick licensed platforms, use secure payment methods, and stick to responsible gaming practices. The Department of Internal Affairs keeps watch over compliance and can impose hefty penalties up to NZD 8.53 million for serious breaches.

New Zealand’s online gambling future looks bright with clear rules and strong player safeguards. Players who stay informed about these changes will enjoy a safe gaming experience and help build a properly regulated domestic industry.

FAQs

Q1. Is online gambling currently legal in New Zealand? Online gambling in New Zealand operates in a unique legal landscape. While it’s illegal for domestic operators to provide online gambling services, New Zealanders can legally access and use offshore gambling websites. The only authorized domestic providers are TAB NZ and Lotto NZ.

Q2. What changes are coming to New Zealand’s online gambling laws? By early 2026, New Zealand plans to implement a new regulatory framework for online casinos. This will introduce a licensing system with 15 available licenses, allocated through auction. Licensed operators will need to meet strict criteria including consumer protection standards, harm minimization requirements, and age verification systems.

Q3. How will the new regulations affect online gambling taxation? From July 2024, a new tax structure will be implemented. This includes a 12% offshore gambling duty on online gambling services, plus 15% GST. In total, operators will face a 25% tax on gross betting revenue. These changes aim to ensure proper revenue collection while maintaining industry sustainability.

Q4. What age restrictions apply to gambling in New Zealand? Age restrictions vary depending on the type of gambling. Casino entry and gaming require individuals to be 20 years or older. For sports betting, horse racing, lottery tickets, and scratch cards, the minimum age is 18. Daily Keno tickets can be purchased by those 17 and above. The upcoming 2026 regulations will standardize the minimum age for online gambling at 18 years.

Q5. How can New Zealanders gamble safely online? To gamble safely online, New Zealanders should choose licensed platforms, use secure payment methods, and follow responsible gaming practices. Look for platforms with valid security certificates, transparent policies, and regular audits. It’s also advisable to use tools like Betblocker or Gamban to manage gambling activities. Remember, while offshore gambling is legal for New Zealand residents, these platforms operate outside domestic jurisdiction, so thorough research is essential.

References

[1] – https://www.dia.govt.nz/services-casino-and-non-casino-gaming-prohibited-gambling
[2] – https://www.safergambling.org.nz/know-your-odds/online-gambling
[3] – https://www.pgf.nz/knowledge-hub/online-gambling
[4] – https://www.health.govt.nz/publications/strategy-to-prevent-and-minimize-gambling-harm-202526-to-202728-proposals-document
[5] – https://igamingbusiness.com/gaming/online-casino/new-zealand-online-casino-regulation/
[6] – https://www.gamblinglaw.co.nz/awards.aspx
[7] – https://www.dia.govt.nz/onlinegamblingconsultation
[8] – https://www.taxpolicy.ird.govt.nz/-/media/project/ir/tp/publications/2024/2024-sp-offshore-gambling-duty/special-report—offshore-gambling-duty.pdf?modified=20240403222415&modified=20240403222415