New Zealand sets online casino licensing timetable and advertising penalties
New Zealand’s Online Casino Gambling Act took effect on 1 May 2026, and the Department of Internal Affairs is preparing the licensing process, reportedly. The Department can require advertising by unlicensed operators to be removed and issue penalties of up to NZD 5 million. Expressions of interest are due to begin in July, with an auction expected in September and full applications in October.
Operators must navigate staged licensing and advertising enforcement as New Zealand establishes its online casino market.