How Gambling Laws In NZ Compare To Other Areas
Last Updated on December 24, 2024
The proliferation of smartphones, developing technology, and improving connectivity have been instrumental in the success of the online casino industry in New Zealand. New Zealand’s gambling industry is regulated by the Department of Internal Affairs which covers betting markets including horse racing, lotteries, pokies, and casinos.
New Zealand has six licensed casinos located in Christchurch, Dunedin, Auckland, Hamilton, and two in Queenstown. The current online gambling regulations are in the process of being overhauled following years of a legal grey area where online operations were neither permitted nor outlawed. The creation of a regulatory framework is being implemented as a way to guide operators and protect consumers. At present, online casino options in New Zealand are limited to offshore operations.
The offshore gambling industry relates to online casino operators that are typically licensed in external jurisdictions such as Malta and Curacao. These sites and apps provide gamers with a great selection of games and also adhere to local regulatory frameworks.
In this respect, New Zealand’s gambling industry shares many parallels with US operations which also finds itself restricted in terms of online gambling. While New Zealand’s gambling laws cover the whole country, the US operates a state-by-state process, with many still choosing to avoid legislation allowing online casinos. This has resulted in a boom in offshore casino customers from prohibitive states, as consumers search for the best and safest gambling options available to them.
Similarly, Australia’s approach to online gambling prohibits the operation of gambling sites. Unlike New Zealand, online gambling is covered by the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. In contrast to these examples, the UK has one of the most open gambling experiences in the world with most markets permitted and regulated by the Gambling Commission.
One of the biggest challenges facing global regulators is the speed at which online operations have developed. The rise in crypto casinos is an excellent example of this, with consumers able to deposit and withdraw funds much easier than before without the interference of banks. Improving connectivity including the global rollout of 5G has made it possible for consumers to enjoy seamless online gaming experiences, and the development of smartphone technology has allowed game developers to create state-off-the-art, immersive experiences that rival land-based alternatives.
The ability of consumers to use VPNs to mask their location and improve security has improved global access, and New Zealand gamblers can easily access a variety of the top online operators. It is hoped that updated regulations will help to give New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs more control over the online gambling industry, bringing it in line with land-based operations. It will also help to improve the finances of the country with online operators being taxed accordingly.
The success of other countries that have a fully established online gambling industry serves as an example of what is possible in New Zealand. With many countries still debating whether or not to update their laws, New Zealand could act as a pioneer in the industry.
