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This page is a historic record.

It contains links to old and/or superseded documents for reference purposes only. For more information contact gambling@dia.govt.nz


Archived gambling consultation documents provided by the Department of Internal Affairs.

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Proposed changes to casino game rules

Consultation period: 4 weeks from 28 September to 26 October 2020.

In March 2020, SKYCITY Casino Management Limited (SCML) applied for a change to a number of casino game rules.

The Department seeks submission on the requested amendments to increase the number of permitted player terminals for each of these games from 30 to 50:

1. Division 5A Electronic Baccarat
2. Division 8A Electronic Roulette
3. Division 9A Electronic Tai Sai
4. Division 10A Electronic Money Wheel

Details are set out in the consultation document below.

Proposed changes to casino game rules (PDF, 375KB)
Proposed changes to casino game rules (DOCX, 114KB)

Submissions

The proposed amendments will be assessed against the purposes of the Gambling Act 2003.

We are seeking comments relating to the specific purposes outlined below. Your submission should address whether any of the proposed amendments to the existing games will impact on the purposes to:
  • Prevent and minimise the harm caused by gambling, including problem gambling
  • Ensure the integrity and fairness of games
  • Limit opportunities for crime and dishonesty
  • Facilitate responsible gambling

Online Gambling in New Zealand: Public Discussion Document

Submissions closed Monday 30 September 2019

(You can view the summary of submissions from the Online Gambling consultation here: https://www.dia.govt.nz/onlinegamblingconsultation)

The Government is interested in knowing what is important to you when it comes to regulating online gambling in New Zealand.

We would also like to know more about how online gambling is affecting the lives of New Zealanders.

The current Gambling Act is from 2003. Back then, internet technology was still developing. Law makers couldn’t have foreseen the way that gambling would develop online 16 years on.

We need to update our laws for today’s digital world and future-proof them as much as possible.

How do I have my say?

Here is link to the submission form: Fill and submit by Monday 30 September 2019 to: onlinegamblingconsultation@dia.govt.nz

Important Note: The 'Submit' button on this form may not work on all systems. If the 'Submit' button does not respond, please save your completed form to your computer, and attach to an email addressed to: onlinegamblingconsultation@dia.govt.nz

OR print out and mail to:

Online Gambling Team
Department of Internal Affairs 
PO Box 805
Wellington 6140

Here are some documents that may inform your submission

In other languages:

Proposed changes to casino game rules

In March 2018 SKYCITY Casino Management Limited (SKYCITY) and Dunedin Casino Limited have applied for changes to a number of casino table game rules.
The Department sought submissions on the requested amendments, the details of which are set out in the consultation document below: The proposed amendments were assessed in accordance with the purposes of the Gambling Act 2003. The Department sought comment on the applications. Comment in relation to the purposes of the Act was valued, with particular reference to whether any of the proposed amendments will impact on the purposes of:
  • preventing and minimising the harm caused by gambling, including problem gambling
  • ensuring the integrity and fairness of games
  • limiting opportunities for crime and dishonesty
  • facilitating responsible gambling.
We asked for submissions with these purposes in mind. In particular, we welcomed comments on whether the proposed amendments may raise harm prevention and minimisation issues that you believe require consideration.
Submissions closed 22 April 2018

Class 4 gambling review

In September 2015, the Government decided to review the class 4 gambling system to determine whether it remains fit-for-purpose.

The Department then undertook initial work on the review.

However, feedback from the sector requested that the Department gain more sector input for the review.

As a result of the sector feedback, and in order to gain the varied perspectives from a range of stakeholders, the Department released a discussion document in June 2016 which asked questions on various aspects of the class 4 gambling system. This document summarises the submissions that were received in response.

The following stakeholders made a total of 747 submissions:
  • clubs (21 submissions);
  • gambling help and health providers (19 submissions);
  • grant recipients (551 submissions);
  • individuals (56 submissions);
  • local government (nine submissions);
  • other entities (29 submissions);
  • class 4 societies (societies) (29 submissions); and
  • venues (33 submissions).

Proposal for Casino Venue Licence Renewal Fee Regulations

The Department of Internal Affairs is seeking your views on proposed regulations setting the fee for a casino venue licence renewal application (renewal fee). This will be done by amendment to the Gambling (Fees) Regulations 2015.

Please send your submission to the Department of Internal Affairs by 30 June 2017.

The proposed options for setting the renewal fee are strictly isolated to the fee payable by casinos for the consideration by the Gambling Commission of an application for the renewal of their venue licence.

If you wish to make a submission, on the proposal please do so by 5pm Friday 30 June 2017.

Please note that all submissions may be made publicly available. Even if you request confidentiality, we may have to release your submission at a later date if a request is made under the Official Information Act 1982. In your submission, please highlight the information you would prefer was withheld should a request be made.

Submissions can be emailed to Casino.Renewals@dia.govt.nz or mailed to:

Safer Communities Policy Team
Policy Group
Department of Internal Affairs
PO Box 805
Wellington 6140

Class 4 Gambling Best Practice (Three Year) Licence

The Department is seeking views on the proposed approach to a three year licence for best practice societies and clubs, the details of which are set out in the consultation document below:
The intention of the longer licence period is to act as an incentive for best practice and improved performance in the Class 4 sector. The Department expresses best practice as:
  • societies and clubs putting community and customers at the heart of what they’re doing
  • working alongside the Department to improve sector performance, and
  • continually working towards improved performance.
Our expectation of best practice requires societies and clubs to go above and beyond what is expected in the legislation. The best practice licence process clearly sets out the Department’s performance expectations to support societies and clubs to drive improvement and work towards best practice.

To be considered for a best practice licence a society or club will first need to meet the licensing criteria in the Gambling Act 2003.

We would like to hear your views on the proposed approach to best practice licensing and the performance expectations.

The Department has developed some Key Messages and Frequently Asked Questions for your further information. These can be found here:

Submissions by 19 May 2017

If you wish to make a submission on the proposal please do so by Friday 19 May 2017.

Submissions can be emailed to bestpracticelicence@dia.govt.nz or mailed to:

Sharlene Hogan
Policy Advisor, Operational Policy
Department of Internal Affairs Te Tari Taiwhenua
PO Box 805
Wellington 6140

Assessment of DIA’s status as the gambling regulator

The Department is inviting your comments about the assessment of our status as the gambling regulator.

As part of a wider government programme to improve the quality of regulation in New Zealand, we are required to report annually to Ministers on the status of the regulatory systems for which we are responsible.

Earlier this year we undertook an assessment of the gambling regulatory system to assess its fitness for purpose and identify and prioritise areas for improvement. The assessment has been grouped into four key performance areas:
  • effectiveness
  • efficiency
  • durability and resilience
  • fairness and accountability.
Read a high level summary of our conclusions and ratings, which includes a form for feedback: A more detailed overview of the system: We are now seeking your comments on our assessment.

The purpose of seeking stakeholder comment is to confirm or challenge our conclusions on the current state of the regulatory system and our identified areas for improvement.

You can provide comments in the stakeholder feedback table (that is included with the summary table in the gambling engagement document) or in another format if you prefer.

Stakeholder comments will be collectively summarised and published as part of our 2017/18 Regulatory Stewardship Strategy.

Comments by 22 May 2017

We welcome any comments you wish to provide. If you wish to provide comments please send them by email to Lizanne.geyer@dia.govt.nz by close of business on Monday 22 May 2017.

Proposed changes to casino game rules

SKYCITY Entertainment Group LTD, Christchurch Casinos Limited, and Dunedin Casino Limited have applied for changes to a number of casino table game rules.

The Department is now seeking submissions on the requested amendments, the details of which are set out in the consultation document below:
The proposed amendments will be assessed in accordance with the purposes of the Gambling Act 2003. The Department seeks your comment on the applications. Comment in relation to the purposes of the Act is valued, with particular reference to whether any of the proposed amendments will impact on the purposes of:
  • preventing and minimising the harm caused by gambling, including problem gambling
  • ensuring the integrity and fairness of games
  • limiting opportunities for crime and dishonesty
  • facilitating responsible gambling.
We ask you to make your submission with these particular purposes in mind. In particular, we welcome comments on whether the proposed amendments may raise harm prevention and minimisation issues that you believe require consideration.

Submissions by 16 December 2016

If you wish to make a submission on the proposed amendments to the rules please do so by 16 December 2016.

Class 4 Cash-In-Ticket-Out Self-Service redemption terminals

The Department is seeking comments on an application to allow self-service ticket redemption terminals for use with cash-in-ticket-out technology. The consultation closed on Friday 2 December 2016.

View the consultation document here:
Consultation on Class 4 Cash-In-Ticket-Out Self-Service redemption terminals - PDF (.pdf, 213kb)
Consultation on Class 4 Cash-In-Ticket-Out Self-Service redemption terminals - WORD (.docx, 315kb)

The application is to introduce self-service ticket redemption terminals in class 4 venues that use cash-in-ticket-out. Tickets with a value of up to $200 could be redeemed by players at the terminals. Tickets with a value of $200 or more would have to be presented to venue staff for payment. This mirrors the current situation with gaming machines where payments of $200 or more require a hand pay.

We are interested in your comments on the application, particularly whether you think the terminals would reduce the risks of armed robbery in venues, and whether there should be any restrictions on where the terminals could be located (e.g. whether they could be located in the gambling area, or only outside the gambling area, or only where they are visible to staff).

Please email your comments to cath.anyan@dia.govt.nz by Friday 2 December 2016.

Consultation on an application to amend the game rules for Electronic Baccarat

SkyCity Management Limited (SCML) has applied for the following amendments to the rules for Electronic Baccarat. Read or download the consultation document below:

Consultation on an application to amend the game rules for Electronic Baccarat – PDF (.pdf, 127kb)
Consultation on an application to amend the game rules for Electronic Baccarat – WORD (.docx, 67kb)

Submissions by 2 December 2016

The proposed amendments described above will be assessed in accordance with the purposes of the Gambling Act 2003. The Department seeks your comment on the applications. Comment in relation to the purposes of the Act is valued, with particular reference to whether any of the proposed amendments will impact on the purposes of:
  • preventing and minimising the harm caused by gambling, including problem gambling
  • ensuring the integrity and fairness of games
  • limiting opportunities for crime and dishonesty
  • facilitating responsible gambling.
We ask you to make your submission with these particular purposes in mind. In particular, we welcome comments on whether the proposed amendments may raise harm prevention and minimisation issues that you believe require consideration.

Please address your submissions to cath.anyan@dia.govt.nz or:

Cath Anyan
Senior Policy Advisor, Operational Policy
Department of Internal Affairs Te Tari Taiwhenua
PO Box 805
Wellington 6140

If you require further information on these proposals, please contact Cath on the above email address or on telephone 04 495 7271.

Submissions closed 2 December 2016.

If any amendments are made to the game rules following this consultation, a notice will be published in the New Zealand Gazette stating that the game rules have been amended, made or revoked, and the date on which the changes take effect.

Account-Based Cashless Gambling in Casinos

Consultation opened 5 September 2016 and closed 30 September 2016.

This document invites your comments about proposed changes to the Gambling Act (Casino Gambling Equipment) Minimum Standard. The proposed amendments would set the standard for the use of account-based cashless gambling in New Zealand casinos. Appendix A - Minimum Technical Requirements for Player Account-Based Cashless Gambling Technology:

Proposed Gambling (Venue Payments) Regulations 2016

Consultation opened 27 June and closed on 28 July 2016.

The Gambling Act 2003 (the Act) currently permits societies to reimburse venues for the actual, reasonable and necessary costs that venues incur within limits imposed by a Gazette Notice made under section 116 of the Act.

The current venue payments regime is time consuming and expensive for the sector to comply with, and for the regulator to audit and enforce.

In 2012, the Minister set priorities for the reform of the Class 4 sector, including simplifying compliance for societies, venues and the regulator, as well as reducing associated costs.

The new venue payments regime is a direct result of this work, as was the Gambling Amendment Act (No 2) 2015 (Amendment Act).

The Amendment Act inserted an empowering provision at section 371(1)(dd) enabling a legislative instrument to prescribe a new venue payment regime. The purpose of this was to replace the current resource-intensive venue costs schedule system with a simple, cost-effective payment system.

After significant consultation with the sector between September 2015 and March 2016, the Minister recommended that a commission-based regime be introduced, calculated as up to 1.28 per cent of weekly turnover, not exceeding 16 per cent of gaming machine profits (excluding GST) on an annual basis, per venue.

Cabinet agreed to this approach on 9 May 2016. The new regime will come into force on 3 October 2016. View the Cabinet paper and Regulatory Impact Statement.

View the proposed regulations

The proposed regulations are as follows:

Proposed Gambling (Venue Payments) Regulations 2016 (PDF, 153KB)

Request for feedback

We seek your views on the proposed regulations, for example:

1. Are there any technical, operational or legal problems or issues with the way the regulations are worded?
2. How do you think the regulations will work in practice? Can you see any pitfalls?
3. Do you have any questions about the new regime?

Review of Class 4 gambling - June 2016

Consultation opened 8 July and closed on 12 August 2016.

This discussion document seeks your views on how community funding from class 4 gambling (pokies in clubs, pubs and bars) can be sustained into the future. Class 4 gambling expenditure has declined since the passing of the Gambling Act 2003, leading to a consequent decrease in funding to communities.

We want your opinion on what the issues and challenges are for the class 4 sector and community funding, and ideas on how things might be improved. We are also seeking ideas for a cost effective regulatory model for the sector that maximises community funding into the future, without increasing harm or driving a growth in gambling.

We are also taking this opportunity to seek views on the future of online gambling in New Zealand.

The Department has had initial conversations with a number of stakeholders about the challenges and opportunities in the sector. Some of their comments have been reflected in this document.

Download the Discussion Document

Consultation on the New Zealand Appendices to the Australian/New Zealand Gaming Machine National Standard

Consultation opened on 27 May 2016 and closed on 10 June 2016

We previously updated you that we are undertaking a two-stage consultation process for the NZ appendices (casino and Class 4) to the Australian/New Zealand Gaming Machine National Standard 2015.

We are now opening the first stage of the consultation process. These proposed changes solely reference technical and legal appendix requirements necessary to implement the Australian/New Zealand Gaming Machine National Standard in New Zealand.

The proposed amendments will be assessed in accordance with the purposes of the Act. We seek your comment on all of the changes described within this document.

Please find the consultation documents set out below.

Consultation on the Australia/New Zealand National Standard for Gaming Machine Equipment

24 March 2016

DIA has now met with a number of stakeholders on the consultation on the Australia/New Zealand National Standard for Gaming Machine Equipment. As you will know the consultation is seeking feedback on:
  • The National Standard itself
  • The New Zealand Appendix to the standard.
As a result of feedback to date, via meetings, the Department considers that further work is required on the New Zealand Appendix. In light of this we are withdrawing the New Zealand Appendix from consultation and we will be reconsidering our approach to engaging with relevant stakeholders to develop a revised Appendix. The current New Zealand Appendix remains in force and is available on the Gambling Technical Equipment page.

Please note that we are proceeding with consultation on the National Standard itself with submissions due by 11 April as previously advised. The National Standard can be found below. Please send your submission to bruce.manuge@dia.govt.nz. As indicated in our consultation document, the main standard has been developed through a collaborative process with Australian and New Zealand regulators and the industry.

Thank you for your feedback. We apologise for any inconvenience associated with withdrawing the NZ Appendix from consultation, and we look forward to further engaging with you on this in due course.

Class 4 Consultation: Ticket-Out Payment System

Consultation opened 15 December 2015 and closed on 15 February 2016.

This document invites your comments about proposed changes to the Gambling Act (Class 4 Gambling Equipment) Minimum Equipment Standards. The proposed amendments would allow Cash-In-Ticket-Out (CITO) technology to be operated on Class 4 gaming machines.

Consultation on application to amend Minimum Technical Standards for Casino EGMs

Consultation opened on 20 November 2015 and closed on 4 December 2015.

Read the consultation document:

Consultation on applications to amend casino game rules

Consultation opened on 19 October 2015 and closed on Friday 27 November
2015.

Read the consultation document: Read the associated appendices:

Consultation on minimum rate of return to the community

Consultation opened on 7 October 2015 and closed on 20 November 2015.

Internal Affairs Minister Peter Dunne announced a package of measures on 7 October 2015 affecting non-casino gambling: the Class 4 sector. His media statement and speech notes are available on the Beehive website.

The Department has been asked to provide advice to the Minister on a possible wider review of the Class 4 sector. Further decisions about whether to proceed with any review will be made in early 2016. The Minister also announced an increase in some gambling operators’ fees; and launched a consultation document on the minimum rate of return from gambling trusts to the community for authorised charitable purposes.

Read the consultation document: Read the background documents:

Proposed Gambling (Venue Payments) Regulations 2016

View the proposed regulations
Request for feedback
Questions and answers

The Gambling Act 2003 (the Act) currently permits societies to reimburse venues for the actual, reasonable and necessary costs that venues incur within limits imposed by a Gazette Notice made under section 116 of the Act.

The current venue payments regime is time consuming and expensive for the sector to comply with, and for the regulator to audit and enforce.

In 2012, the Minister set priorities for the reform of the Class 4 sector, including simplifying compliance for societies, venues and the regulator, as well as reducing associated costs.

The new venue payments regime is a direct result of this work, as was the Gambling Amendment Act (No 2) 2015 (Amendment Act).

The Amendment Act inserted an empowering provision at section 371(1)(dd) enabling a legislative instrument to prescribe a new venue payment regime. The purpose of this was to replace the current resource-intensive venue costs schedule system with a simple, cost-effective payment system.

After significant consultation with the sector between September 2015 and March 2016, the Minister recommended that a commission-based regime be introduced, calculated as up to 1.28 per cent of weekly turnover, not exceeding 16 per cent of gaming machine profits (excluding GST) on an annual basis, per venue.

Cabinet agreed to this approach on 9 May 2016. The new regime will come into force on 3 October 2016. View the Cabinet paper and Regulatory Impact Statement.

View the proposed regulations

The proposed regulations are as follows:

Proposed Gambling (Venue Payments) Regulations 2016 (PDF, 153KB)

Request for feedback

We seek your views on the proposed regulations, for example:

1. Are there any technical, operational or legal problems or issues with the way the regulations are worded?
2. How do you think the regulations will work in practice? Can you see any pitfalls?
3. Do you have any questions about the new regime?

This consultation is now open and closes on Thursday 28 July 2016.

Please email your comments to gamblingreview@dia.govt.nz with ‘venue payments’ in the subject line.

Or, you can post your comments to:

Safer Communities team
Policy Group
Department of Internal Affairs
PO Box 805
Wellington 6140

Please note that submissions may be made publicly available. Even if you request confidentiality, we might have to release your submission if someone makes a request under the Official Information Act.

Review of Class 4 gambling - June 2016

Download the Discussion Document
Sending us your submission
Questions and answers

This discussion document seeks your views on how community funding from class 4 gambling (pokies in clubs, pubs and bars) can be sustained into the future. Class 4 gambling expenditure has declined since the passing of the Gambling Act 2003, leading to a consequent decrease in funding to communities.

We want your opinion on what the issues and challenges are for the class 4 sector and community funding, and ideas on how things might be improved. We are also seeking ideas for a cost effective regulatory model for the sector that maximises community funding into the future, without increasing harm or driving a growth in gambling.

We are also taking this opportunity to seek views on the future of online gambling in New Zealand.

The Department has had initial conversations with a number of stakeholders about the challenges and opportunities in the sector. Some of their comments have been reflected in this document.

Download the Discussion Document

 *You need Adobe Reader installed on your computer to view our files. If you are unable to open the files we recommend you get the latest version of Adobe Reader. You can download and install Acrobat Reader for free from the Adobe website.

**You need Microsoft Excel 2003 installed on your computer to view these files. If you do not have access to Excel 2003 or higher you may use the Excel file viewer to view, print and export the contents of this file.

Sending us your submission

Please send your submission to the Department of Internal Affairs by Friday 12 August 2016.

Please note that all submissions may be made publicly available. Even if you request confidentiality, we may have to release your submission at a later date if a request is made under the Official Information Act 1982. In your submission please highlight the information you would prefer was withheld should a request be made.

Your submission can be sent in the following ways:

Email: gamblingreview@dia.govt.nz

Post: Safer Communities Team
Policy Group
Department of Internal Affairs
PO Box 805
Wellington 6140

Questions and answers: Class 4 gambling review discussion document

What is the aim of the review?
Since the enactment of the Gambling Act in 2003, a combination of factors have led to a decrease in class 4 gambling expenditure, and a decline in funds being available for distribution to communities. Class 4 expenditure has increased since 2014 and there are signs that the sector is stabilising, and is more mature. However, the future of the sector and the sustainability of community funding remains uncertain.

Therefore, the aim of this review is to look at:
  • the long-term sustainability and effective allocation of funding to communities;
  • whether the legislation is still fit-for-purpose;
  • whether the sector can be regulated more cost-effectively; and
  • preventing and minimising harm from gambling.
What happens after consultation on the discussion document closes?
The public can make submissions on the discussion document until 12 August 2016. The submissions will then by analysed by officials, as well as further targeted consultation with key stakeholders. Key stakeholders include societies, clubs and commercial venues that own or host gaming machines, local government, problem gambling service providers, and representatives of groups who receive grants funding.

The Minister of Internal Affairs will report back to Cabinet at the end of 2016 with recommendations on how to progress the review.

Will the review result in changes to the Gambling Act 2003?
The Department will be considering a wide range of options, which will be informed by submissions received on the discussion document and from targeted workshops with the sector. Options could include changes to the Gambling Act, but not necessarily.

Officials will put the options before Cabinet by the end of 2016. Cabinet will then decide which options to progress. Options will be discussed with the sector before any final recommendations for change are made.

Submitters on minimum rate of return to authorised purposes

Earlier this year the Department released a consultation document inviting submissions on proposed changes to the minimum rate of return to authorised purposes under the Gambling Act 2003. Submissions closed on 20 November 2015. 30 submissions were received which you can read here. Please note that Ministers and Cabinet have not yet made decisions on the views expressed in these submissions.


Number
Organisation
Type

1
Akarana Community Trust (PDF, 3.9MB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

2
Auckland Council (PDF, 168KB)*
Territorial authority

3
Bluesky Community Trust (PDF, 226KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

4
CERT (PDF, 3.1MB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

5
Clubs New Zealand (PDF, 61KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

6
Community Gaming Association (PDF, 225KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

7
Dragon Community Trust (PDF, 396KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

8
First Light Community Foundation (PDF, 325KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

9
First Sovereign Trust (PDF, 403KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

10
Grassroots Trust (PDF, 181KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

11
Hospitality New Zealand (PDF, 201KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

12
ILT Foundation (PDF, 274KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

13
Infinity Foundation (PDF, 112KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

14
Kawerau District Council (PDF, 115KB)*
Territorial authority

15
Lion Foundation (PDF, 275KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

16
Lizz Crawford (PDF, 249KB)*
Individual

17
Mt Wellington Foundation Ltd (PDF, 198KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

18
New Zealand Community Trust (PDF, 161KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

19
New Zealand Council of Christian Social Services (PDF, 381KB)*
Problem gambling support

20
New Zealand Racing Board (PDF, 974KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

21
Pelorus Trust (PDF, 742KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

22
Pip Robbo (PDF, 161KB)*
Individual

23
Problem Gambling Foundation (PDF, 579KB)*
Problem gambling support

24
Pub Charity (PDF, 474KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

25
Southern Trust (PDF, 225KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

26
Southern Victorian Charitable Trust (PDF, 175KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

27
Salvation Army (PDF, 431KB)*
Problem gambling support

28
The Trusts Community Foundation (PDF, 171KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

29
Trillian Trust (PDF, 807KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

30
Trust Aoraki (PDF, 377KB)*
Class 4 gambling sector

Proposed changes to the 2006 class 4 Game Rules

The document below invited comments about proposed changes to the 2006 class 4 Game Rules.

The Secretary for Internal Affairs, subject to appropriate consultation, is able to make, amend or revoke rules under section 367 of the Gambling Act 2003.

Section 372 of the Gambling Act 2003 requires that, before regulations are made, persons and organisations that are likely to be substantially affected by the regulations must be consulted and given a reasonable opportunity to respond. Submissions will be given adequate and appropriate consideration.

In making your submission, we seek your input on how you consider these amendments relate to the Gambling Act's purposes in general, and the objectives of the Game Rules, which are to ensure the integrity and fairness of games and minimise harm and maximise benefit. Details of how to make your submission are included in the linked documents.

If the amendments are made, a notice will be published in the Gazette stating that the game rules have been amended, made or revoked and the date on which the changes will take effect.

The period for consultation began on 4 September 2015 and lasted until 2 October 2015.

Proposed changes to gambling fees

Earlier this year the Department released a consultation document inviting submissions on proposed changes to gambling fees under the Gambling Act 2003 (see below). Submissions closed on 24 April 2015. 41 submissions were received which you can read here. Please note that Ministers and Cabinet have not yet made decisions on the views expressed in these submissions:
The document below invited comments about proposed changes to gambling fees under the Gambling Act 2003.

Section 372 of the Gambling Act 2003 requires that, before regulations are made, persons and organisations that are likely to be substantially affected by the regulations must be consulted and given a reasonable opportunity to respond. Submissions will be given adequate and appropriate consideration.

Submissions closed 24 April 2015.

Note: This consultation document was amended on 5 March 2015 to correct an error. Page 20 of the document showed incorrect current fees for renewed venue licences (clubs) and renewed venue licences (non-clubs), meaning that an increase in the fees was shown. These figures have now been corrected to show that the current (GST-exclusive) fee for renewal of venue licences for clubs is $112.89 and for renewal of venue licences for non-clubs is $169.78. Therefore the proposal that these two types of licence fees will remain unchanged, as noted in para 53 of the document, is now correctly reflected in the schedule.

Consultation Document:
Responses to OIA requests received by the Department related to the consultation on proposed changes to gambling fees have been published on this page.

Response Date Details of the requestDownload/View
12 June 2015Various questions regarding the Memorandum Account, the EMS fee and the IGP projectOIA RSOC15055 (PDF 567KB)*
22 May 2015Information about IGP (refined request for documentation)OIA RSOC15031 - IGP documentation (PDF 5.4MB)*
OIA RSOC15031 - response letter (PDF 63KB)*
13 May 2015Various information pertaining to the proposed fee increases for the class 4 sector - remaining responseOIA RSOC15045- remaining response (PDF 358KB)*
13 May 2015Various information pertaining to the proposed fee increases for the class 4 sector (question 4 part response)OIA RSOC15045 - question 4 (PDF, 92KB)*
1 May 2015Operation ChestnutOIA RSOC15046 (PDF, 106KB)*
24 April 2015Various information pertaining to the proposed fee increases for the class 4 sectorOIA RSOC15045 - part 1 (PDF, 176KB)*
21 April 2015Staff numbersOIA RSOC15044 (PDF, 46KB)*
16 April 2015Information about IGP (Part 2 - travel)OIA RSOC15029 (Part 2 - travel) (PDF, 53KB)*
10 April 2015Information about IGP (Part 2)OIA RSOC15031 (Part 2) (PDF, 74KB)*
1 April 2015Information about IGP (Part 1)OIA RSOC15031 (Part 1) (PDF, 49KB)*
1 April 2015Various information about Gambling staff and costs (Part 1)OIA RSOC15029 (Part 1) (PDF, 949KB)*
30 March 2015 Fee modellingOIA RSOC15034 (PDF, 717KB)*

Proposed amendments to the rules of casino table games

The Secretary for Internal Affairs, subject to appropriate consultation, is able to make, amend or revoke rules under section 367 of the Gambling Act 2003.

The Department of Internal Affairs has received a request for amendments to the rules of various casino table games. Explanations of the amendments are provided within the documents linked to below.

In making your submission, we seek your input on how you consider these amendments relate to the Gambling Act's purposes in general, and in particular the Act's purposes to "Prevent and minimise the harm caused by gambling, including problem gambling", to Ensure the integrity and fairness of games", to "Limit opportunities for crime and dishonesty" and to "Facilitate responsible gambling". Details of how to make your submission are included in the linked documents.

If the amendments are made, a notice will be published in the Gazette stating that the game rules have been amended, made or revoked and the date on which the changes will take effect. Submissions on these proposals closed on Monday 15 December 2014 at 5pm.

Proposed amendments to the rules of casino table games

The Secretary for Internal Affairs, subject to appropriate consultation, is able to make, amend or revoke rules under section 367 of the Gambling Act 2003.

The Department of Internal Affairs has received a request for amendments to the rules of various casino table games. Explanations of the amendments are provided within the documents linked to below.

In making your submission, we seek your input on how you consider these amendments relate to the Gambling Act's purposes in general, and in particular the Act's purposes to "Prevent and minimise the harm caused by gambling, including problem gambling", to Ensure the integrity and fairness of games", to "Limit opportunities for crime and dishonesty" and to "Facilitate responsible gambling". Details of how to make your submission are included in the linked documents.

If the amendments are made, a notice will be published in the Gazette stating that the game rules have been amended, made or revoked and the date on which the changes will take effect. Submissions on these proposals closed on 2 May 2014.

Proposed amendments to minimum equipment standards and the game rules for Electronic Gaming Machines with respect to cashless gambling

The Secretary for Internal Affairs, subject to appropriate consultation, is able to make, amend or revoke rules under section 367 of the Gambling Act 2003.

This consultation proposes amendments to allow cashless gambling at Electronic Gaming Machines in New Zealand casinos. Explanations of the amendments are provided within the documents linked to below.

We invite you to review the proposed amendments and submit your views and comments to the Department of Internal Affairs. Details of how to make your submission are included in the linked documents.

If the amendments are made, a notice will be published in the Gazette stating that the game rules have been amended and the date on which the changes will take effect.
Submissions on this proposal closed on 2 May 2014.

Public consultation on four Class 4 gambling proposals

This consultation document includes discussion on increasing the transparency of grant-making decisions; increasing the minimum rate of return to authorised purposes; regulating local distribution of gambling proceeds; and changing the Class 4 venue payments system. Submissions closed 25 October 2013.

Summary of Gaming Machine Account Summary Returns for Societies' 2012 Financial Year

The PDF file showing average rates of return to authorised purposes has been provided in response to requests for the data that informed the policy proposals on increasing the minimum rate of return to authorised purpose (currently out for consultation).

The Department has collated the most recent information for which a full year of data is available that is, each society’s 2012 financial year.

Some societies have expressed concern that the average percentage return figure of approximately 42% stated in the consultation document was achieved by including societies that had higher distribution rates because of the distribution of past reserves. The data shows that the average net proceeds generated and the average net proceeds distributed during societies’ 2012 financial years were both near to 42%. Therefore the average distribution percentage referred to in the consultation document was not achieved as a result of societies clearing past year's undistributed net proceeds. Societies will find this information of interest.

In analysing submissions in response to the consultation document the Department will be focused on understanding the impact of the proposals on individual society’s structure and operating costs. Each society has the detailed knowledge and understanding of its own costs and it is this information that will add value in the analysis of submissions and in providing advice to the Minister on the options. The Department encourages societies to provide as full an analysis of their own costs as possible in support of their submissions. Per machine gambling breakdown

The per-machine payment system considered in the discussion document above provides different types of venues with different per-machine payment rates. The variables are the location of the venue, the number of gaming machines at the venue and the number of hours that gaming machines are operational at the venue. The following document shows the specific per-machine payment rates for each sub-category of venue (as well as the number of venues in each sub-category). It also includes examples of the weekly payments for different types of venues. The Department wants to clarify two issues in paragraph 51 of the local distribution section of the consultation document.

51. High level analysis of grant-making and the relationship to districts or regions indicate that national organisations receive grants totalling approximately 21 per cent of net proceeds from Class 4 non-club gambling. In 2012, of 67 districts, 44 received more than 40 per cent of GMP that was generated in their area. Similarly, 15 out of 17 regions received more than 40 per cent. Within single territorial authorities, eight districts received grants totalling more than 80 per cent of the GMP generated in that district. One district received grants totalling nearly one and a half times greater than the total GMP generated in the district (Chatham Islands).

When referring to the number of districts receiving more than 40 per cent of GMP, the consultation document inadvertently omits the words “of the minimum possible proceeds available being 37.12 per cent” after 40 per cent in paragraph 51. Footnote 12 goes some way to explaining this calculation. The calculation was made to illustrate the varying local returns to districts when comparing GMP generated in the area and the proportion received based on the minimum rate of return.

Also, the year discussed in this section of the document was actually 2011 not 2012 as stated. The sentence should read: In 2011, of 67 districts, 44 received more than 40 per cent of the minimum possible proceeds available being 37.12 per cent of GMP that was generated in their area. By way of comparison, in 2012, 56 territorial authorities received 40 per cent or more of the potentially available 37.12 per cent of proceeds.

Please note that (as stated in the consultation document) the Department collects accurate data about where the money is generated as all Class 4 gaming machines are electronically monitored. However, the figures above have been calculated on data supplied to the Department. The data was collected using the information that societies publish in newspapers or on websites. The Department does not collect information on where grants are made and therefore cannot guarantee the accuracy of this data and resulting calculations.

Proposed Amendments to the Rules of Money Wheel (Division 10)

The Secretary for Internal Affairs, subject to appropriate consultation, is able to make, amend or revoke rules under section 367 of the Gambling Act 2003.

The Department of Internal Affairs has received a request for amendments to the rules for Money Wheel (Division 10). Explanations of the amendments are provided within this document, and full versions of the proposed amended rules are attached to this letter at Appendix A. The proposed amendments in the appendix are shown in underlined font.

We invite you to review the proposed amendments and submit your views and comments to the Department of Internal Affairs. Details of how to make your submission are at the end of this letter. Submissions closed 29 August 2013.

Consultation on possible regulations to exempt spot prize draws from the definition of gambling (06/03/2013)

The Department of Internal Affairs, on behalf of the Minister of Internal Affairs, is seeking your views on possible regulations to exempt spot prize draws from the definition of gambling under the Gambling Act 2003 (the Act).

The consultation document invites your comments about this proposal.

The possible exemption will mean that events where spot prize draws are held will no longer be subject to the current gambling licensing and administrative requirements.

Submissions closed 4 April 2013.

Proposed Amendments to the Rules of Casino Table Games (28/09/2012)

The Secretary for Internal Affairs, subject to appropriate consultation, is able to make, amend or revoke rules under section 367 of the Gambling Act 2003.

The Department of Internal Affairs has received a request for amendments to the Rules of Casino Table Games. Explanations of the amendments are provided within this document, and full versions of the proposed amended rules are available on the Department’s website.

We invite you to review the proposed amendments and submit your views and comments to the Department of Internal Affairs.

In making your submission, we seek your input on how you consider this amendment relates to the Gambling Act's purposes in general, and also in particular the Act's purposes to "Prevent and minimise the harm caused by gambling, including problem gambling", to Ensure the integrity and fairness of games", to "Limit opportunities for crime and dishonesty" and to "Facilitate responsible gambling".

If the amendments are made, a notice will be published in the Gazette stating that the game rules have been amended, made or revoked and the date on which the changes will take effect.

Submissions on these proposals close on 26 October 2012. Appendices as follows:

Proposed Amendments to the Minimum Technical Requirements for Electronic Monitoring Systems (18/05/2012)

The Secretary for Internal Affairs is able to prescribe minimum standards for the design, manufacture, and performance of gambling equipment under section 327 of the Gambling Act 2003.

This consultation primarily proposes amendments to the standards for the voluntary pre-commitment facility which forms a part of the requirements for monitoring systems in New Zealand casinos.

If the amendments are made, a notice will be published in the Gazette stating that the standards have been amended and the date on which the changes will take effect.

Submissions on these proposals closed on 1 June 2012.

Proposed Amendments to the Rules of Casino Table Games (15/05/2012)

The Secretary for Internal Affairs, subject to appropriate consultation, is able to make, amend or revoke rules under section 367 of the Gambling Act 2003.

The Department of Internal Affairs has received a request for amendments to the Rules of Casino Table Games. Explanations of the amendments are provided within this document.

We invite you to review the proposed amendments and submit your views and comments to the Department of Internal Affairs.

In making your submission, we seek your input on how you consider this amendment relates to the Gambling Act's purposes in general, and also in particular the Act's purposes to "Prevent and minimise the harm caused by gambling, including problem gambling", to Ensure the integrity and fairness of games", to "Limit opportunities for crime and dishonesty" and to "Facilitate responsible gambling".

If the amendments are made, a notice will be published in the Gazette stating that the game rules have been amended, made or revoked and the date on which the changes will take effect.

Submissions on these proposals closed on 8 June 2012.

Proposed Developments / Enhancements / Maintenance (DEM) Policy Document (03/2/2012)

The Department consulted on a draft policy document on the treatment of development, enhancement and maintenance (DEM) costs.

The focus of the document is to make the existing policy for DEM costs incurred at class 4 venues and the Department's expectations in relation to these costs clear.

Submissions closed Friday 2 March 2012.

Proposed Amendments to the Rules of Casino Table Games (18/10/2011)

The Department consulted on proposed amendments to the Rules of Casino Games.

The Secretary for Internal Affairs, subject to appropriate consultation, is able to make, amend or revoke rules under section 367 of the Gambling Act 2003.

A corresponding amendment is also being proposed to the rules for Electronic Roulette. Amended versions of the rules can be found below.

Amendments will need to be assessed to ensure they are consistent with the purposes of the Gambling Act. Submissions closed on 3 November 2011.

Proposed Amendments to the Rules of Casino Table Games (24/02/2011)

The Department consulted on proposed amendments to the Rules of Casino Table Games in respect of roulette.

The Secretary for Internal Affairs, subject to appropriate consultation, is able to make, amend or revoke rules under section 367 of the Gambling Act 2003.

The Department received a request for amendments to the Rules of Casino Table Games, and took this opportunity to propose some additional minor amendments.

Explanations of the amendments are provided within this document, and full versions of the proposed amended rules are available below.

Submissions closed Thursday 24 March 2011.

Proposed amendments to Gambling (Class 4 Net Proceeds) Regulations 2004 (19/11/2010)

The Department consulted on a proposal to change the Gambling (Class 4 Net Proceeds) Regulations 2004 so that non-casino gaming machine societies can make multi-year grants to the same recipient or recipients. Currently, the Regulations prohibit this.

The consultation document includes a proposal to make some additional regulations so that societies do not inadvertently breach other statutory provisions if multi-year grants are allowed, and to deal with the spending of residual gaming machine profits.

Submissions closed 5pm Friday 17 December 2010.

Consultation (Round Two): Proposed Casino Monitoring System (15/11/2010)

The following document details proposed minimum technical requirements to feature in a Minimum Standard for a casino electronic monitoring system.

Following on from round one of the consultation exercise posted on 05/07/2010 (see below), round two is now open for your consideration.

The Department looks forward to receiving your feedback, which will be considered along with all the submissions received from the first round.

Correspondence should be emailed to angela.ibbotson@dia.govt.nz or posted to the Gambling Compliance Group (C/O Angela Ibbotson).

Please contact Angela if you require additional explanation from the Gaming Technology unit.

Submissions closed on Monday 29 November 2010.

Proposed Amendments to the Rules of Casino Games - Three Card Poker (08/10/2010)

The Department consulted on proposed amendments to the Rules of Casino Games – Three Card Poker.

The Secretary for Internal Affairs, subject to appropriate consultation, is able to make, amend or revoke rules under section 367 of the Gambling Act 2003.

The following letter initiated consultation on three proposed amendments to the rules for casino games in respect of Three Card Poker.
Submissions closed on Monday 8 November 2010.

Consultation (Round One): Proposed Casino Monitoring System (05/07/2010)

SkyCity Entertainment Group Ltd has submitted an application for minimum standards to enable the introduction of a new casino monitoring system.

Minimum standards are prescribed by the Secretary of Internal Affairs pursuant to section 327 of the Gambling Act 2003 and section 372 of the Act provides and obligation for the Secretary to consult with those likely to be affected.

The proposed system is wide ranging and would provide the casino and its customers with a number of new tools.

The consultation period ended on Thursday 5 August 2010. The second technical stage of the consultation is above.

Minimum Equipment Standards for Jackpot Systems (11/12/2009)

The Department consulted on amendments to Minimum Equipment Standards for Jackpot Systems.

The proposal suggests the withdrawal of non-downloadable jackpots and the addition of a credit limit on gaming machines.

The consultation period was extended to Friday 5 March 2010.

Proposed Amendments to Minimum Equipment Standards (27/08/2009)

The Department consulted on proposed amendments to the Minimum Equipment Standards (MES) being issued.

The consultation period ended on Friday 11 September 2009.

Proposed Amendments to Casino Game Rules 16/04/2009

The Department consulted on proposed amendments to Casino Game Rules.

The proposed amendments seek to remove the restriction on the number of Cash-In/Ticket-Out machines in casinos; amend the game denominations on Ticket-In/Ticket-Out gaming machines; and amend the pay scale on Caribbean Stud Poker progressive jackpots.

The consultation period ended on 15 May 2009.

Categorisation of Venue Costs under the Gazette Notice and the Reasonable Timeframes Associated with Labour Tasks (08/04/2009)

The Department consulted on the categorisation of venue costs under the Limits and Exclusions on Class 4 Venue Costs Notice 2004 and the reasonable timeframes for the completion of labour tasks associated with hosting gaming machines.

This document is intended to form the basis on which the Department will assess Class 4 venue costs in the future.

The consultation period ended on 29 May 2009. Note: This document has been developed with reference to other reports. For reference, those documents are:

Possible Exemptions to the Gaming Machine Definition in the Gambling Act 2003 (16/07/2008)

This paper invited feedback on a proposal to make regulations under section 368 of the Gambling Act 2003.

The proposed regulations are to exempt about a dozen currently operating examples of two casino games, and several categories of gambling equipment, from the gaming machine definition in section 4 of the Act.

The consultation period ended on 31 August 2008.

Establishing a Standard Approach to Information Gathering from Class 4 Gambling Operators (16/06/2008)

Establishing a standard approach to information gathering from Class 4 gambling operators:
  • Class 4 Information Project Final Report (PDF, 133K)*
  • Appendix A (PDF, 125K)* Consultation document - Establishing a Standard Approach to Information Gathering from Class 4 Gambling Operators
  • Appendix B (PDF, 153K)* Analysis of submissions - Information Gathering
  • Appendix C (PDF, 85K)* Letter to stakeholders - Class 4 Information Needs – Grants Information
  • Appendix D (PDF, 82K)* Draft categories for authorised purpose information
  • Appendix E (PDF, 232K)* Consultation document - Options for a Standard Approach to Information Gathering from Class 4 Gambling Operators: Exclusion Orders
  • Appendix F (PDF, 75K)* Analysis of submissions - Exclusion Orders

Amendments to the Limits and Exclusions on Class 4 Venue Costs Notice 2004 (18/04/2008)

The Department consulted on amendments to the Limits and Exclusions on Class 4 Venue Costs Notice 2004 to recognise that the limits in the notice are exclusive of GST.

The consultation period ended on 9 May 2008.

Minimum Equipment Standards for Jackpot Systems (07/01/2008)

The Department consulted on Minimum Equipment Standards for Jackpot Systems.

Among other matters, the document anticipated the withdrawal of all non-downloadable jackpots by 1 July 2009.

The consultation period ended on 1 February 2008. See also: Response Letter (PDF, 40K)* advising that the Department will not mandate the use of downloadable jackpots by 1 July 2009.

Proposed new gambling fees to take effect from 1 January 2008 (22/08/2007)

This document invited feedback on proposed new gambling fees to take effect from 1 January 2008: The Department also produced a Business Case, which explained in greater detail costs and reasons for the proposed fees.

The consultation period ended on 24 September 2007.

Consultation on options for a standard approach to information gathering from Class 4 Gambling Operators (06/07/2007)

This discussion document proposes a method for collecting the type of information required to meet policy and stakeholder needs in relation to exclusion orders.

It follows on from the earlier paper below.

The consultation period ended on 27 July 2007.

Establishing a standard approach to information gathering from Class 4 Gambling Operators (17/01/2007)

This paper is part of a project aimed at identifying stakeholder and Department of Internal Affairs policy information needs in relation to Class 4 gambling and recommending processes to meet those needs.

The consultation period ended on 23 February 2007.

EMS Game Rules - Consultation Document (29/01/2006)

This document sets out proposed changes to games rules as a result of the Electronic Monitoring System (EMS).

The consultation period ended on 1 February 2005.

Gambling Act 2003: Consultation on Electronic Monitoring System Fees Regulations(27/07/2005)

This consultation document invites comments on proposals to make regulations for fees to meet the costs of implementing and operating an electronic monitoring system (EMS) for Class 4 gaming machines.

The consultation period ended on 30 September 2005.

Consultation on Minimum Technical Requirements for Electronic Monitoring System (10/05/2005)

Consultation on Minimum Technical Requirements for Electronic Monitoring System (EMS).

The Department issued a consultation document to all Class 4 societies and manufacturers of gaming machines inviting comment on minimum technical standards.

The consultation period ended on 10 June 2005. Note: These proposed standards incorporated two documents published by the Queensland Office of Gaming Regulation. Copies of these documents can be found at the following link: http://www.qogr.qld.gov.au/publications/technical_information/Monitoring_Systems/index.shtml

Consultation on Licensed Promoter Regulations (17/12/2004)

This consultation document invited public comments on proposals to make licensed promoter regulations under the Gambling Act 2003.

The consultation period ended on 4 February 2004.

Proposed Development of Protocol Based Third Party System Connection to Class 4 Gaming Machines (06/07/2004)

Feedback on Proposed Development of Protocol Based Third Party System Connection to Class 4 Gaming Machines.

This discussion document outlines the development of protocol based third party system connections to class 4 gaming machines.

It was sent out to manufacturers of third party equipment organisations and those short listed for the Electronic Monitoring System (EMS) monitor, with the accompanying covering letter on 6 July 2004.

Submissions closed 23 July 2004.

Consultation on Minimum Standards for Gambling Equipment - Reply to Industry (30/06/2004)

Consultation on Game Rules Classes 1 to 4, Minimum Standards, and Limits on Venue Expenses (18/05/2004)

 For more information see: Letter to Gaming Machine Societies (PDF, 86K)*

Formal consultation on an Electronic Monitoring System (EMS) for Class 4 gaming machines (10/05/2004)

Formal consultation on an Electronic Monitoring System (EMS) for Class 4 gaming machines, under the terms of the Gambling Act 2003.

Consultations on different aspects of the Gambling Act 2003 (22/03/2004)

Consultations on the following aspects of the Gambling Act 2003: Proposed Infringement Offences for Casino Game Rules; Games played on Gaming Machines in Class 4 Venues - Outside Casinos; Limits on Venue Expenses; Game Rules Class 1, 2 and 3 - Lotteries, Instant Games and Games of Chance and Prize Competitions. Submissions are now closed.

Housie Rules Consultation (19/03/2004)

Following the enactment of the Gambling Act 2003, the old Housie Regulations will be repealed and replaced by new Housie Rules, which will take effect from 1 July 2004.

The purpose of this consultation document is to invite feedback on what the new Housie rules should look like: Submissions closed 16 April 2004.

Second Discussion Paper on Site Payments (22/12/2003)

The Department has been reviewing its policy and licence conditions relating to gaming machine site payments.

The following page contains two discussion papers on site payments, a draft summary of the submissions received on the first discussion paper, and the Department's interim policy on site payments:

First Discussion Paper on Site Payments Policy (23/05/2003)

The Department is reviewing the policy and licence conditions relating to the payments societies make to the businesses at which their machines are operated: Submissions closed 20 June 2003.

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