Government Moves to Make Online Lotteries for Charities Permanent

"If the law does not change, charities would need to revert to selling tickets by mail or in person from November this year," said van Velden.

Minister of Internal Affairs, Brooke van Velden, has announced that the Government is working swiftly to ensure online lotteries for charitable purposes are made permanent. This change will allow charities such as the Heart Foundation, Coastguard NZ, Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust, and local hospices to continue fundraising online, benefiting Kiwi communities.

"If the law does not change, charities would need to revert to selling tickets by mail or in person from November this year," said van Velden. Her Bill, which passed its first reading, will allow charities to keep running their lotteries online, ensuring ongoing support for New Zealanders. She emphasized that many Kiwis have benefited from the life-changing services provided by these non-profits.

Charities have welcomed the proposed change. Clive Nelson, CEO of the Heart Foundation, praised the government’s leadership, stating that the Bill will secure a vital source of income for organizations engaged in life-saving work.

The Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust also expressed support. General Manager Shaan Hulena noted that the change addresses the challenges of today’s digital landscape, where physical fundraising methods like cheques and paper ads are no longer practical.

Coastguard NZ Acting Chief Executive Phil Harkness highlighted the importance of the Bill in ensuring that charities relying on lottery sales can continue to operate and keep Kiwis safe.

Ms van Velden assured that online charitable lotteries pose minimal risk of gambling harm and noted there has been no increase in gambling-related issues during the temporary exemption period.

The Bill is expected to become law before the current exemption expires at the end of October, securing the future of online fundraising for charities across New Zealand.