New Zealand Takes Slow Approach to Online Casino Launch
New Zealand is preparing to launch its regulated online casino market in 2027, but the country is choosing caution over speed.
The Online Casino Gambling Act 2026 has already received royal assent, creating the legal base for online casino regulation. However, operators will not be able to go live until next year. The launch was originally expected earlier, but officials say more time is needed to build a strong and safe system.
Under the new rules, only licensed companies will be allowed to offer online casino games to players in New Zealand. The market will also be limited to 15 licences, with no operator allowed to hold more than three.
Jarrod True, director of True Legal, said the change is a major shift for the country. He said:
The most significant shift is the move from an unregulated offshore market to a tightly controlled, licence-limited regime.
The Department of Internal Affairs said the 2027 timeline is needed to properly check operators, review applications and prepare the new market. Companies will have to show strong financial resources, clean ownership structures, AML controls, and responsible gambling systems.
The rules will also be strict on advertising. Affiliate and influencer marketing will be banned, along with many promotional messages.
Large operators are expected to compete hard for licences. Entain has already said it plans to apply for up to three licences, the maximum allowed.
The main challenge for New Zealand will be moving players from offshore sites to licensed platforms while keeping strong consumer protection rules in place.
