The Department of Internal Affairs

Department of Internal Affairs | Te Tari Taiwhenua

Building a safe, prosperous and respected nation



Gambling


Image shows a call to action to stay up to date with the Online Gambling Implementation programme by visiting www.dia.govt.nz/OGI

Are online casinos legal or illegal in New Zealand?

We get asked this question a lot! It is legal for New Zealanders to gamble on offshore casino gambling websites however online casinos based in New Zealand are illegal. It is also illegal to advertise offshore casino gambling websites in New Zealand.

Online casino gambling is currently an unregulated activity. Many of the websites are operated from overseas and therefore not protected by New
Zealand law if there are any disputes. We are developing legislation, which is expected to be enacted in early 2026 to regulate online casinos to ensure a safe, fair and well-controlled online gambling environment for New Zealanders.

Find out more about the Online Gambling Implementation Programme

Data and Information:

 Data and statistics (link and button)   Information for territorial authorities (link and button)   Classes of Gambling (link and button)

 Gambling in pubs amnd clubs (link and button)   Information for casino operators (link and button)   Forms and guidelines (link and button)

Online Gambling Implementation (link and button)

Legislation and Compliance:

 Legislation and regulation (link and button)   Electronic Monitoring System (link and button)   Rules for running a gambling activity (link and button)

 Prohibited gambling activities (link and button)   Compliance, investigations & audit (link and button)   Gambling technical equipment (link and button)   

Updated Regulations to Minimise Gambling Harm (link and button)

News and Contacts:

 News and information (link and button)   Consultations (link and button)   Contact us (link and button)

 

Opportunity for feedback (link and button)