New Zealand Set to Regulate Online Casino Gambling with Stricter Rules

New Zealand plans to regulate online casino gambling by limiting licenses and enforcing age verification and advertising bans. Offenders could face fines up to NZ$5 million. These measures, set to take effect in early 2026, aim to direct users to licensed operators and bolster consumer protection.

New Zealand is taking significant steps to regulate its burgeoning online casino gambling sector. Announced on Wednesday, the government plans to cap the number of licenses and require mandatory age verification, with a focus on preventing advertisements targeting children.

The proposed regulatory framework, set to be in place by early 2026, will see offenders fined up to NZ$5 million, according to Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden. She emphasized the need for safe online gambling practices, highlighting that New Zealanders frequently use offshore gambling sites.

By introducing these regulations, including a minimum age requirement of 18, the government aims to protect consumers and direct them to up to fifteen licensed operators. This move comes amid growing popularity of online gambling and aims for greater consumer protection under existing laws, with the bill expected in parliament next year.

(With inputs from agencies.)