Regulated online casinos are edging closer towards reality in New Zealand, as the Online Casino Gambling bill has passed its second reading in the country’s Parliament.
The rubber stamping of the regulation is scheduled to be completed in June; however, there are still a few hurdles that are left to be overcome.
Support was shown for community returns from the online casino gambling market in the second reading, as offshore gambling duty (online gambling duty once the bill passes) will increase from 12% to 16%, with approximately 4% ring-fenced for community benefit.
Further scrutiny is set to come for the bill, as it now progresses to the Committee of the Whole House, which will consider the legislation in detail, debate each of its clauses and make any changes if necessary.
Once the clause review is complete, the bill will return to the House of Representatives for its third and final reading. The House will then vote and decide if the legislation should become law. If the bill has passed its third reading, it will receive Royal Assent.
Trina Lowry, Programme Director – Online Gambling Implementation at the Department of Internal Affairs, also updated stakeholders in an email about the implementation timeline, noting that regulation finalisation is “expected to be available in early June 2026”.
At this point, engagement with interested parties will begin to make sure that they understand the compliance requirements of the New Zealand online casino market.
Up to 15 online casino gambling licences will be up for auction in New Zealand as part of the three-stage licensing process. The market is scheduled to launch later this year on 1 December.
Currently, we know of at least two operators that will pursue a licence – Entain Australia & New Zealand and SkyCity Entertainment Group.
Entain Australia & New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Andrew Vouris recently told the Australian Financial Review: “We’re going to be the only operator in the market that’s able to offer sports, racing and potentially casino. That is massive.”
Entain CEO Stella David stated during the group’s 2025 full-year earnings presentation this week that the company would be seeking three licences in the New Zealand online casino market.
SkyCity CEO Jason Walbridge noted: “Gaming is evolving in exciting ways, bringing together the best of in‑person and digital experiences.
“While we aim to lead this change, our priority is ensuring our customers and communities are protected. Any move into a regulated online market would be built on strong consumer safeguards and SkyCity’s enduring commitment to responsible gambling, so the experience remains safe and enjoyable for everyone.”
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