New Zealand regulator encourages online casino operators to register interest in new regime

23 June 2025

The New Zealand Government is planning to introduce a new system to regulate online casino gambling to ensure a safe, fair and well-controlled gambling environment for New Zealanders.

“For online casino operators interested in entering the New Zealand market, the most important thing you can do is register your interest at www.dia.govt.nz/OGI” says Trina Lowry, the Online Gambling Implementation Programme Director.

“As we continue to design and implement the system, we want to ensure it is clear, efficient and supportive for potential operators. To help us achieve this, we want to engage with operators to understand what information would be most helpful as the process unfolds and understand their experience and needs.”

The Government has announced that licences will be issued by a competitive process and operators will need to meet a range of regulatory requirements to be considered.

“Online casino gambling is not new in New Zealand. Everyday New Zealanders gamble on a variety of offshore gambling websites.”

“Regulating this sector will help protect consumers, minimise gambling harm and provide regulatory oversight of online casino gambling providers operating in New Zealand.”

For now, the advertisement of online casino gambling is strictly prohibited under the Gambling Act 2003, however the new legislation proposes to make it legal for licensed operators to advertise online casino gambling to New Zealanders.

Learn more about what potential operators can expect next and find out the best way to engage with us by watching this video.

ENDS

Media contact:
Media Desk
Department of Internal Affairs |Te Tari Taiwhenua
Mobile: +64 27 535 8639
Email: media@dia.govt.nz