New Zealand is preparing an Online Casino Gambling Bill to license online casino operators, according to the report. The proposal would cap licences at 15 and allow fines of up to NZ$5 million for unlicensed services; the report says regulators estimate online casino spending reached about NZ$1.3 billion in 2025.
The proposed framework would set operator limits and stronger penalties for unlicensed online casino services.
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Reportedly, Georgia has proposed licences for operators serving foreign online gambling customers. The draft legislation, submitted through an accelerated parliamentary process, covers online slots and sports betting and proposes a 5% gambling tax.
New Zealand's Problem Gambling Foundation has called for a ban on gambling advertising ahead of the country's online casino market launch, its advocacy director Andree Froude told RNZ. Froude said current advertising laws are not fit for purpose and questioned why applicants with past non-compliance should receive licences. The Department of Internal Affairs confirmed 11 applicants paid a collective NZ$15m for all 15 online casino licences, with unlicensed offshore operators told to cease by 1 December.
New Zealand's Problem Gambling Foundation has called for gambling advertising to be prohibited, ahead of the launch of the country's online casino market. Andree Froude, the foundation's advocacy director, made the call in an interview with RNZ's Morning Report show. She said current advertising laws are not fit for purpose and need tighter restriction and stricter enforcement.
It was reported that New Zealand issued advertising guidance for licensed online casino operators. The Department of Internal Affairs rules prohibit material appealing to minors and personal endorsements, alongside claims based on luck or rituals.
New Zealand made its Online Casino Gambling Regulations 2026 by Order in Council on 2 June, with the rules due to take effect on 3 July. The regulations cover harm prevention, consumer protection, advertising, reporting, audits, fees and levies. Expressions of interest are expected in July, followed by an auction in September and licence applications in October.
New Zealand’s Parliament passed the Online Casino Gambling Bill at its third and final reading; it awaits Royal assent and is due to take effect on 1 May, according to the report. The Department of Internal Affairs is expected to issue up to 15 licences from early 2027, while existing operators may continue until 1 December but cannot advertise in the country. Further licensing guidance is due on 1 May.