NZ online casino licenses coming in 2026

The government of New Zealand announced that online casinos are to be licensed as part of a groundbreaking move to reduce harm, support tax collection, and offer citizens consumer protection.
According to information issued by Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden, a regulatory framework is likely to be in place by early 2026, with a restricted number of licenses available and granted via auction. Each license is valid for three years, given the operator meets all regulatory criteria.
The government will also permit restricted advertising for licensed operators; however, sponsorship will not be permitted. The minimum gambling age will be eighteen, and the operators will only be allowed to provide online casino games; the licenses will not be used for lottery or sports betting products.
Minister Brooke van Velden stated:
“Licensing is how we regulate most forms of gambling domestically. This is not intended to increase the amount of gambling New Zealanders do but to ensure operators meet requirements for consumer protection and harm minimization, as well as paying tax.
SkyCity Entertainment Group, New Zealand’s only land-based casino operator, has been advocating regulated online gaming. SkyCity Online Casino operates under a Malta license.
In a Tuesday filing, SkyCity said:
“We remain supportive of the regulation of online casino gaming in New Zealand with an emphasis on strong host responsibility and delivering community benefits in New Zealand.”
The Minister mentioned that further information would be released later this year.