New Zealand Invites Online Casino Operators to Register Interest
New Zealand’s government has invited online casino operators to register their interest in a forthcoming licensing process. The initiative aims to gather input from the industry and build a framework that prioritises safety, fairness, and strong oversight.
Regulator Seeks Input from Potential Operators
The New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs has called on online casino operators to signal their interest in participating in the new licensing process. Trina Lowry, Online Gambling Implementation Programme Director, stated: “For online casino operators interested in entering the New Zealand market, the most important thing you can do is register your interest.”
Lowry emphasized the value of operator input during this stage, adding: “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.”
Competitive Licensing and Regulatory Standards
The government plans to issue licences through a competitive application process. Operators will be required to satisfy a range of regulatory requirements before being considered. The goal is to create a well-controlled and fair environment for online casino gambling targeted at New Zealand consumers.
Lowry noted that while online casino gambling already takes place via offshore platforms, introducing regulation will enable the government to oversee the sector more effectively: “Online casino gambling is not new in New Zealand. Everyday New Zealanders gamble on a variety of offshore gambling websites.”
New Rules on Advertising
Under the current Gambling Act 2003, advertising online casino gambling remains prohibited. However, new legislation aims to allow licensed operators to advertise their services to New Zealand residents. The government’s broader objectives are to protect consumers, reduce gambling-related harm, and strengthen oversight of operators offering online casino products within the country.