The auction, run by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA), attracted 32 bidders and ended after 10 rounds, marking a huge step towards the country’s regulated online casino market.
The DIA shared:
“The auction determined who has won the right to apply for an online casino gambling license. Successful participation in the auction does not guarantee that a licence will be granted, and all successful entities must now proceed through a detailed application and assessment process before any licensing decisions are made.”
Among the successful bidders are Stake, Entain, SkyCity Entertainment, and Super Group, the owner of Betway. Baytree Interactive secured the right to apply for three licences, while Playvia Gaming and Rock Swift Group each secured two. Entain also gained access to another license through TAB New Zealand, which it operates under a long-term strategic partnership.
Each license will cover a single brand for an initial term of up to three years, with the option to renew for another five years. However, winning the auction doesn’t guarantee approval, as all 11 entities must still complete a detailed application process and meet the country’s licensing requirements. The DIA hasn’t yet disclosed which brands will operate under the approved licenses.
The new framework also sets a deadline for operators that didn’t secure a place in the auction. From December 1, 2026, online casino providers that haven’t submitted a license application must stop operating in New Zealand, while those with applications under review may continue operating during the assessment period, but they won’t be allowed to advertise.
The regulated market is expected to be fully operational in 2027, giving successful applicants time to complete the remaining steps before launching under the new system.
