New Zealand to Introduce Age Limit for All Lotto Products to Protect Youth
New Zealand is set to strengthen its gambling regulations by introducing legislation to prohibit the sale of all Lotto products to individuals under 18.

A Step Towards Comprehensive Protection
New Zealand’s proposed law builds on existing restrictions, which only applied to Instant Kiwi tickets. Once enacted, this change will establish a uniform age limit for all Lotto products, providing clear and consistent guidelines for retailers and consumers alike.
Advocates like Andree Froude, Director of Advocacy and Public Health at the Problem Gambling Foundation, have praised the reform, highlighting its critical role in addressing early exposure to gambling.
“It does tend to normalise gambling and make it seem to them that there’s no risk associated with it and that it’s just a normal thing to do,” she said.
Research consistently links early gambling exposure with a higher likelihood of developing harmful behaviors later in life.
Digital Risks and Evolving Gambling Habits
In the digital age, young people face increased exposure to gambling through online platforms and social media. One area of concern is loot boxes—features in online games that allow players to spend real money for random rewards. Froude compared loot boxes to gambling, emphasizing their role in familiarizing youth with the behavior.
“They’re on social media, they’re very tech-savvy, and all of these things are exposing them to gambling,” Froude noted.
The accessibility of online gambling, available at all hours, further blurs the line between gaming and gambling, exacerbating the risks.
Industry Support and Public Health Impacts
Lotto New Zealand has expressed its support for the reform, citing its commitment to responsible practices. Will Hine, Head of Corporate Communications at Lotto, acknowledged that while data on underage purchases is limited, removing ambiguity around age restrictions is a positive step. He added that Lotto already adheres to strict advertising protocols to ensure it does not target minors.
By implementing these changes, New Zealand aligns its approach with public health objectives, aiming to reduce the risks of early gambling exposure. Experts also stress the importance of parental guidance in fostering awareness and promoting healthier behaviors among children.
Enforcement will play a critical role in the success of the proposed legislation. Advocates have called for robust measures to ensure compliance across both physical and online sales channels.