New Zealand to Launch 15-Licence Online Casino Market by 2026
The New Zealand government has introduced legislation to establish a regulated online casino market with up to 15 operator licences issued through a competitive bidding process. The bill also includes new measures to strengthen controls on online gambling, with the first licences expected to be granted by 2026.
15 Licences Up for Grabs in Auction-Based Model
At the core of the proposal is the introduction of a capped licensing system for online casino operators. A total of 15 licences will be made available through a bidding process, with applicants required to submit business plans and disclose relevant operational data to the New Zealand Gambling Commission. The government expects strong international interest, positioning the local market as a lucrative gateway for global casino brands.
The auction model signals a competitive entry barrier, but some domestic stakeholders are voicing concerns. SkyCity Entertainment Group, which runs the country’s largest land-based casinos and has faced commercial headwinds in recent years, has already lobbied for a reduction in the number of licences. The company’s letter to Minister Brooke van Velden reportedly warned of potential market fragmentation and challenges to player protection if the proposed structure remains unchanged.
Harm Minimisation and Advertising Restrictions at the Forefront
According to the Department of Internal Affairs, the regulatory framework will prioritise consumer safeguards.
“The Online Casino Gambling Bill will introduce a regulatory system for online gambling in New Zealand, which will prioritise harm minimisation, consumer protection, and tax collection,” said Minister van Velden.
While some forms of advertising will be permitted, they will be subject to restrictions. Specific details are yet to be published, but the government has signalled particular interest in curbing the role of social media influencers, following past enforcement actions against those promoting unlicensed offshore operators. Companies operating outside the law could face penalties of up to NZ$5 million.
As the bill proceeds to the select committee phase later this year, further clarity is expected on the operational requirements and the government’s approach to advertising and responsible gambling standards. Public input will also be invited during this stage.
Expansion in iCasino, Contraction in Betting
The move to liberalise the iCasino sector comes just as lawmakers take the opposite route with online sports betting. Amendments to the Racing Industry Act 2020 have now legally entrenched Entain—operator of TAB NZ—as the sole provider of online betting in the country.
Entain’s position in Oceania continues to grow through its Ladbrokes and Neds brands in Australia and a 25-year TAB NZ contract in New Zealand. The company appears unfazed by the coming changes to casino regulation and may even stand to benefit from being insulated in a market segment now closed to new entrants.