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The answer is not as simple as yes or no. At the moment, no online casino in New Zealand has an official local license. The only operator allowed to run online betting legally in the country is TAB NZ, and it only covers sports and racing.
All other online casinos available to Kiwi players are offshore sites. That means they are based in other countries. Playing on them is not illegal, but these casinos are not protected or regulated by New Zealand law.
A New Law is Coming
In 2025, the New Zealand parliament passed a big reform for the gambling industry. Under this new law, the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) will be able to issue up to 15 online casino licenses. The first licensed casinos are expected to launch in April 2026.
This is a major step, because for the first time players in New Zealand will have access to locally licensed and regulated online casinos. Until then, offshore casinos remain the only option for online play, but they come with risks.
What is Legal Right Now?
Until 2026, these are the only legal options for gambling in New Zealand:
- TAB NZ: the official and licensed operator for sports betting and racing.
- Lotto New Zealand: the national lottery that offers Lotto draws, Powerball, Strike, Instant Kiwi scratchies, Bullseye, and more. Tickets and games can also be played online.
- Land-based Casinos: there are six fully licensed casinos in the country:
- SkyCity Auckland
- SkyCity Hamilton
- SkyCity Queenstown
- SKYCITY Wharf Casino (Queenstown)
- Christchurch Casino
- Dunedin Casino
All of these are tightly regulated, follow responsible gambling rules, and their profits support local communities.
The Risks of Offshore Online Casinos
Many New Zealanders play on international casino sites, but there are some serious risks:
- No Legal Support: If you face a dispute with an offshore site, you cannot go to New Zealand courts for help.
- Payment Problems: Withdrawals can be delayed or blocked without proper explanation.
- Data Security Issues: Offshore casinos may not follow New Zealand’s privacy laws.
- Lack of Gambling Support: They usually don’t provide access to New Zealand’s problem gambling services.
- Tax Confusion: Winnings from offshore sites can create extra tax complications.
Some players have shared stories of winning big but never receiving their payouts, because the site’s rules were unclear or unfair. With no local regulator, it’s very hard to fight such cases.
Safer Alternatives Until 2026
If you want peace of mind, the safest options are local and regulated:
- Play Lotto games online or in-store profits go back into New Zealand communities.
- Bet with TAB NZ for sports and racing.
- Visit licensed land-based casinos for the traditional casino experience.
These options may seem limited compared to the huge range of offshore casinos, but they offer protection, fairness, and community benefits.
Also Read: Over Under Betting Guide: How To Bet On Game Totals
