The New Zealand government published the Online Casino Gambling Regulations 2026 on June 4, as part of the Online Casino Gambling Act 2026. This marks the establishment of the country's first licensed online casino market.
The regulations come into effect today, July 3, and the market is set to launch on December 1, 2026. Here are the key rules highlighted by iGN:
Payments and Fees:
- 3.5% of operator profits as a quarterly fee.
- $19,000 application fee (excluding tax) for participation in the selection process.
- 5% penalty on unpaid amounts after 20 working days, plus an additional 5% for each subsequent month.
Player Protection:
- Operators must provide players with limits on playtime, deposits, and spending, as well as options for breaks, time-outs, and pop-up notifications.
- Limits can only be removed or increased after a minimum of 24 hours from the request.
- At least one notification after 60 minutes of continuous play, showing session time and losses.
- Self-exclusion for any period, including indefinite, without the option to shorten the selected period.
- If signs of problematic gambling persist, operators must exclude the player for up to 2 years.
Player Accounts and Data:
- Verification of identity and age (minimum 18 years) before account activation.
- Prohibition on credit cards and payment methods associated with credit.
- All amounts must be in New Zealand dollars.
- Storage of player data for 7 years after the end of the relationship.
Bonuses and Mechanics:
- No-wagering bonus cannot exceed $100; with wagering, it is the lesser of $100 or 200% of the deposit or bet.
- A minimum of 60 days to clear the bonus.
- Prohibition on autoplay and simultaneous launching of more than one slot.
- Network progressive jackpots are only available between licensed operators.
Advertising:
- Prohibition on sponsorship (branding on athlete uniforms, event names, and buildings), ambassador contracts, and affiliate marketing.
- Advertising is banned during live broadcasts, 30 minutes before and after, and on public transport.
- Ads must not target an audience where more than 20% are under 18 years old.
- Prohibition on targeting individuals aged 18-25 without measures to prevent exposure to minors.
- Prohibition on images of individuals under 25 while gambling.
According to the director of the DIA's online gambling implementation program, the regulations create a reliable and balanced system for player protection and harm reduction.
The regulations were published ahead of the operator selection process, which will take place in the second half of July. Up to 15 licenses will be auctioned in the market.