New Zealand

The New Zealand Gambling Commission is at the forefront of regulating all gambling in New Zealand. Headquartered in Parnell, Auckland, the Office acts as an independent statutory decision-making body that was set up under the Gambling Act of 2003.

The Commission is tasked to accept and process licensing applications and hears appeals on licensing and enforcement decisions related to the use of gaming machines and gambling activities not related to casinos. It’s a Commission of Inquiry as such, it can inquire into matters of public importance, particularly in the welfare of players. In short, it has a wide range of powers and responsibilities including but not limited to approval of licenses and agreements.

Other regulatory bodies are:

• New Zealand Lotteries Commission 
• Totalizator Agency Board for sports betting

What you should know about (online) gambling in New Zealand (FAQ)

Who can play legally?

Just like in other countries, there are certain age restrictions involved when gambling. And the minimum age requirement depends on the type of game. When it comes to regular lotteries and sports betting, you have to be at least 18 years of age. But if you’re planning to enter a regulated physical casino, then you should be at least 20 years of age.

• Regular lotteries and sportsbetting 18+
• Landbased / Brick and mortar casinos 20+
• Online gambling 18+

Regulated gambling in New Zealand only covers casino games in and outside casinos. As of April 2021, there are six physical casinos that are regulated to offer popular games card games and slot machines like the Skycity in Auckland and Hamilton and Wharf Casino. The Commission prohibits remote interactive gambling or the use of communication devices like phones and the internet, as such it doesn’t license online casinos. However, it’s not illegal to participate in gambling conducted overseas.

What can you play legally?

Under the Gambling Act of 2003, the regulated games that players can enjoy are defined in four classes: Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, and gaming machines outside casinos. 

• Class 1 are games with prizes and turnover that do not exceed $500. Under the law, no license is required to operate these games. For example, office lotteries fall under this Class.  
• Class 2 refers to games with prizes that exceed $500 but do not exceed $5,000. The game’s potential turnover can exceed $500 but should not top up $25,000. Again, there’s no licensing requirement for these games. Community lotteries or other games run by the community are examples. If you buy and join these lotteries, you will notice complete game information from prizes to proceeds at the checkout counter.
• Class 3 covers games with prizes in one session that don’t exceed $5,000. Large scale lotteries are included in this category. Instant game sessions in casino evenings or parties are popular forms of Class 3 gambling in New Zealand. In casino events or parties, you can join a table to play Blackjack, Roulette or Moneywheel. 
• Class 4, or those gaming machines outside casinos. This is where you’ll find the most popular forms of casino games. For example, slot machines, electronic roulette and video poker  and others that use gaming machines are examples of Class 4 gambling.

Where to go with complaints?

In case of complaints, your first response is to contact the casino’s Customer Support team. It’s your first point of contact for all general enquiries related to their gambling products or services. For example, if a deposit did not appear on your account, make sure to contact Support first to clarify the problem. Regulated offshore casinos maintain 24/7 professional support through email, toll-free number or Live Chat that allow you to get assistance when you need it. 

TAB, the sole racing and sports betting agency, offer several contact channels in case you want information or help. You can file a complaint through the following:

• Phone: 0800 102 106
• Email: [email protected]
• In writing: TAB NZ. PO Box 38899 Wellington Mail Centre, LOWER HUTT 5045

Where to go in case of addiction (for self or others)?

All online casinos regulated by the Commission comply with the initiative for Responsible Gambling. As such, these casinos feature helpful tools like: 

• Self Exclusion
• Deposit Limits
• Session Limits to help manage your gambling activities. 

Some operators have a Support Team that can provide help in managing gambling behavior. In case of problem gaming, you can count on the Commission for help and guidance. Below,you will find links to reputable organizations that can help you gamble responsibly.

Website of the authorities

For help, you may contact one of the following Offices:

• Ministry of Health. This Office is responsible for the prevention and treatment of problem gambling among citizens.
• Problem Gambling Foundation. The organization offers free, professional, and confidential counseling for problematic players and their families.

History of regulation

The Gambling Commission was established under the Gambling Act of 2003. However, this is not the first regulatory body established for the purpose of regulating gambling activities. In 1987, the New Zealand Lotteries Commission was established. For sports betting, the primary organization that runs the industry is the Totalizator Agency Board or the TAB.

Reputation of the Gaming Authority

The New Zealand Gambling Commission is the primary agency that is tasked to oversee and regulate the country’s gambling industry. As the country’s chief regulator, it ensures New Zealanders can enjoy safe and fair gambling that also contributes to community well-being. The Commission ensures that gambling is run by trusted operators, that players’ welfare are guaranteed and that local communities benefit from gambling proceeds. The Commission has audit procedures in place and act responsibly on players’ complaints. 

One recent decision of the Commission was the suspension of the license of a Dunedin casino after a woman player lost millions. According to the Commission, the casino failed to offer help to the player who was struggling with problem gambling.

Its application process requires at least 30 working days to process and reserves the right to regulate its procedure when it sees it. As part of audit and compliance, it also provides operators with Self-Assessment Reviews to test their own levels of compliance. This empowers casino operators to be part of the process in keeping the gambling industry safe, fair and secure for all.