Last month, we reported that the government of New Zealand had set out plans to establish a regulated online gambling market by the year 2026. Now, authorities have predicted that a New Zealand gambling market has the potential to generate NZ$500m (US$301.1m) in revenue for the country.
Revenue opportunities are a key factor in the government’s decision to regulate online gambling, while other benefits include increased protection for players. Let’s discuss how the New Zealand gambling market is progressing and what the future may hold for online gambling in the country.
Rollout in 2026
In July, New Zealand’s Minister of Internal Affairs made public plans to establish a regulated online gambling market in the country.
Online casino licences will be distributed to operators via an auction format, with stringent regulations in place that operators must meet before they can successfully bid for a licence.
Also included in plans for a New Zealand gambling market are rules surrounding player protection and the reduction of gambling-related harm.
New gambling regulations are expected to roll out in 2026, bringing gambling laws in New Zealand, which currently exist in something of a legal grey area, fully up to date.
Revenue Expectations
Of course, news of a New Zealand gambling market will be welcome for operators with an eye on global international expansion. Despite it being currently illegal for domestic operators to offer online gambling services in New Zealand, the sector is booming nonetheless, with a highly engaged player base that makes the country an attractive prospect for operators and online casino owners.
The New Zealand gambling market won’t just benefit operators, however. It will also create financial opportunities for the government and generate new and significant revenue streams.
According to reports, the government expects a New Zealand gambling market to generate $500m in revenue. However, some experts have claimed that is estimate falls short of the true value of the industry, countering that revenue could reach as high as $1bn.
Enhanced Player Protections
Generating revenue isn’t the only reason the government is looking to establish a regulated New Zealand gambling market. The move is also designed to offer better protection for players in the country and to minimise the risk of gambling-related harm.
Details as to how exactly the government will achieve this are relatively scarce, but they are believed to include strict limitations on advertising and marketing and a ban on gambling sponsorships.
By regulating the market, the New Zealand authorities will ensure all operators in the country adhere to the standards they set out. Doing so is impossible with the legislation as it currently exists, so establishing a regulated New Zealand gambling market will be critical to keeping players safe and promoting responsible gambling messaging.
Conclusion
If the financial forecasts are to be believed, implementing a regulated iGaming market will pay dividends for the government of New Zealand. Currently, the rollout is expected sometime in 2026, provided there are no unforeseen delays. The move will undoubtedly offer benefits to the government, operators and players in New Zealand, the latter of which will have the chance to enjoy games like live blackjack and live roulette.
