Law changes for online racing and sports betting: What it means

30 June 2025

New Zealand has passed legislation that prohibits online racing and sports betting operated by any organisation except New Zealand’s domestic provider TAB NZ.
These measures came into force on 28 June as part of amendments made to the Racing Industry Act 2020.

The legislation will maximise the financial returns to New Zealand’s racing industry and sports. In the most significant update to online racing and sports betting law in over 20 years, it also increases oversight of TAB NZ and creates powers to make further regulations to reduce gambling harm and protect customers, if needed.

It is now illegal, under New Zealand law, for any person or organisation except TAB NZ, to promote or take bets on racing or sporting events from a person located in New Zealand.

Gambling operators that previously offered online racing and sports betting in New Zealand have been notified that they must withdraw with immediate effect.

This prohibition applies specifically to sports and racing betting. It does not affect online casino gambling, which will be regulated by forthcoming legislation, including licences for approved operators.

Department of Internal Affairs is New Zealand’s gambling regulator and will be monitoring and enforcing compliance with the new prohibition.

“We expect that responsible gambling operators will respect and comply with this law change” says Vicki Scott, Director Gambling, DIA.

“They should close New Zealand accounts and pay outstanding money to customers promptly.”

“We encourage gamblers based in New Zealand to be aware of the risks of placing sports or racing bets with providers other than the TAB and betcha brands. If an overseas company is offering you these bets, they are breaking the law here.”

“Gamblers should be extremely cautious of those operators, who may be based in jurisdictions with minimal consumer safeguards in place. They might lack adequate measures to address gambling harm and may not return unspent credits or even pay out on large wins.”

“If people find sites trading in New Zealand illegally, please let us know by contacting gambling@dia.govt.nz.”

-ENDS-

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