New Zealand wants new rules for online casinos. Currently, many New Zealand casinos are outside the government's control and people often play on websites from other countries.
To fix this, the New Zealand government is planning to introduce new rules. Current state of the market in New Zealand Most online casinos in New Zealand are foreign.
Now, there is no clear system to control them. The government cannot always protect players. This is why New Zealand's Home Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden wants new rules by 2026. Her plan includes a licensing system for online casinos, sports betting, and lottery games. The changes would result in safer casinos in New Zealand.
The goal is to encourage prudent gambling and keep people safe. Below are some proposed new regulations. Highlights of the proposed new regulations Brooke van Velden wants online gambling to be safe.
The rules make it difficult for unsafe foreign casinos to operate in New Zealand. Here's a simple explanation of what each rule means. Online casino licenses - Only casinos with special licenses can legally operate in New Zealand.
The government can check whether the casino is safe and fair. Without a license, casinos cannot operate. Limited number of licenses - Only a few casino operators will be granted licenses. The regulations help the government keep a close eye on casinos operating in New Zealand. Every three years, casinos must renew their licenses and must strictly follow the rules to stay open.
Types of games allowed - Under these new rules, only traditional casino games such as slots and table games are allowed. Sports betting and lottery games are not included.
Advertising rules: Licensed casinos will be allowed to advertise their products, but there will be strict limits. Ads cannot be targeted at young people. Also, casinos cannot sponsor events that feature gambling that is out of reach of children. Age limit: Only people over 18 can play online casino games.
The rule protects younger people from the risks of gambling. New tax on offshore operations New Zealand's new tax rules for the offshore market control online gambling, bringing in more money for the government.
From July 2024, all international online casino operators earning more than NZ$60,000 a year will need to register and comply with New Zealand's gambling laws. These operators will pay a 12% tax on New Zealand players' winnings, in addition to New Zealand's goods and services tax (GST). Together, the taxes add up to almost 25%.
