Complete Guide to Casino Gambling in New Zealand

Online gambling is exactly what it sounds like – casinos games and other forms of betting that you do digitally through your computer or mobile device.

There are many different types of gambling ranging from popular casino games like blackjack and pokies (slots) to sports betting and horse racing.

Blackjack, a popular cards game, is widely regarded as having the best odds in the gambling world. Table games in general tend to have better odds, while pokies and other machine-based games are more down to pure chance and luck.

This varies country to country so will depend on where the company operates from and where a player is located.

Under the Gambling Act 2003, all gambling is prohibited unless authorized by the government. Gambling is categorized into four classes, each of which requires a special license from the government in order to operate. Maximum prize amounts and turnovers vary from class to class.

Gambling-related activities that are still prohibited across the board include bookmaking and remote interactive (online) gambling. But, while Kiwi law dictates that it is illegal for players to gamble at any online casino based in New Zealand, any player of age can legally play at online casinos based outside the country. Advertising from overseas gaming operators within New Zealand is banned though.

If in any doubt, check your local regional laws.

While New Zealand's gaming regulations might seem strict at first, in reality they’re simply focused on shutting down New Zealand-based operators that are not licensed by the state. The law is clear that as long as the player is of age, there’s nothing prohibiting New Zealanders from playing at online casinos based elsewhere. That means you can enjoy all the top casino games such as keno, craps, poker, video poker, blackjack, baccarat, roulette, and pokies any time you want.

Yes. As long as the online gambling operator is based overseas and not in New Zealand.

Players must be at least 20 years of age to enter casinos, but only 18 to participate in sports betting (including horse racing), scratch cards and lotteries.

It is estimated that 80% of all Kiwis (about 3.6 million people) gamble in some form or another, with many of these players participating in lottery games only. In 2013, players spent over $2 billion NZD on outside gaming machines (pokies), lotteries, sports betting, and at live casinos. Gambling overall has dropped about 19% since 2004, however expenditure on lotto games has increased 22% from a decade ago.

Yes. The top online casinos for New Zealand on this page all accept NZD. Players can typically deposit and withdraw in NZD, play in that currency and see their transaction history in NZD on these sites. Plus, playing at a casino that accepts Kiwis means no exchanging currency, which often has fees associated with it.

No. As long as you are playing at an online casino based internationally, New Zealanders are able to keep 100% of their winnings and are not subject to income tax.

Yes, as long as you choose a reputable casino, like the ones listed on our site. When shopping for an online casino, players should always look for the eCOGRA logo at the bottom of the homepage. This certification signifies that the casino has met stringent security testing standards, has the most complex data encryption and they practice fair gaming procedures. If you see this seal, you can feel confident entrusting your money to this casino.

All online casinos with an eCOGRA (or similar certification) are inspected and audited regularly to meet high standards of quality, including protecting the privacy of the customer and safeguarding their information through encryption software. Practices such as random number generator analysis and regular game inspections are also standard for every certified online casino. Additionally, reports about casinos that try to scam players are widely available online.

Yes. While the New Zealand government doesn't have jurisdiction over any overseas-based casinos, players who feel they have been mistreated can report gaming sites to the company that licenses them. Quality-assurance organizations like eCOGRA also look into disputes with operators that they certify. And if you have trouble with any casino you find on our site, visit our Player Assist page to see how we can help your resolve the issue.

Gambling in New Zealand is regulated by The Gambling Commission, which is encompassed by the Department of Internal Affairs. Established in 2003, the Commission licenses casinos, specifies conditions for licensing and approves agreements between casino operators and casino venue license holders.