The gambling industry in New Zealand has been thriving since 1835 when the colonialists placed the first official wager on a horse race. Since that period, the gambling industry has become one of the most rewarding sectors in New Zealand, turning in approximately 18 billion NZ Dollars at the end of 2020. The industry has only gotten bigger with online gaming innovation and the novel methods gambling companies are providing their online services. Check out the best practices and top online casinos operating in New Zealand! Below is a comprehensive review of the online gambling industry in the country.
Is Online Gambling Legal in New Zealand
The simplest answer to the question is No because the Department of Internal Affairs prohibits and regulates gaming activities in New Zealand, and the prohibition includes Online Gambling. The provisions of the Gambling Act 2003 prohibit Remote Interactive Gambling or any form of gambling activity done through a communication device. The prohibition on Online Gambling also includes the license to become an Online Gambling Operator. This means that New Zealand does not legally permit online casinos or sportsbooks. However, these limitations have not affected the rising tide of Online Gambling in the country. While the legislature is yet to make any recognizable move to change the provisions of the 2003 Gambling Act, the Department of Internal Affairs has been more forthcoming about its position on Online gambling. In their official statement on the prohibited Gambling activities, the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs states: “The prohibition is on remote interactive gambling in New Zealand and therefore does not prohibit gambling conducted overseas. For example, it is not illegal for someone in New Zealand to participate in gambling over the Internet if that website is based overseas. However, you should be aware of the dangers such gambling can involve. Giving details of your personal and financial information over the Internet can expose yourself to potential fraud or unsolicited correspondence. If the website is based overseas, your legal protections if you are a victim of fraud are dependent upon the legal system of the host country. If you are not sure of the legality of a website and the protections afforded, do not use it.” The statement does not provide the needed legal boost to go on with online gambling activities within the country, but it clarifies the provisions of the Gambling Act. With the knowledge of our legal restrictions in Online Gambling, it is clear that we can legally use offshore online gambling operators as long as we adhere to the host country’s rules and keep the New Zealand authorities out of our online gambling conflicts. It is not much, but it is enough to make some winnings.
Top Online Gambling Options
Here is a list of the most visited online gambling available to New Zealand punters. These websites are also on the list because they offer the best online gambling services, have credible hosts and have proven records of paying their customers.
Bet365
Bet365 launched in 2020 and has been available to players in New Zealand. The intuitive user interface and rich gameplay have endeared this website to its users. One of its best features is the live gaming display; users also love how the website offers trending games in their location. Bet365 also offers mobile gambling on both android and iOS phones.
BetWay
Launched in 2006, BetWay is one of the oldest online gambling platforms, and over the past few years, it has established itself as a credible online gambling platform in New Zealand. This London-based gambling brand is regulated by the United Kingdom Gambling Commission, making it one of the safest online gambling options for players worldwide. These online gambling websites and several other offshore gaming providers offer different gambling services to their users in New Zealand and beyond. Some of the available Online Gambling Options in New Zealand
Video Lottery
Lottery is mostly legal in New Zealand, but the restriction on online gambling means that Lottery Commission of New Zealand cannot record the lottery options provided by online gambling providers in the national lottery database.
Online Casinos
As one of the most popular gambling options globally, casinos have become sensational online gambling options. Some of the online gambling options include slots, video poker, blackjack, and roulette.
Sportsbook
Sports betting is the oldest gambling activity in New Zealand. Gamblers all over the country still place bets on horse races and greyhound races. Online Sportsbooks also provide their users with all regular sports betting options and added options of virtual and fantasy competitions.
How to Start Earning from Online Gambling in New Zealand
Online gambling is as rewarding in New Zealand as it is in other parts of the world. Placing stakes on video lottery, online casinos, and sportsbooks are mostly games of odds and skills. If you are skilled and calculating enough, you can make a lot of money off online gambling. Here is a simple guide on how to start:
Register
The first step to earning from online gambling is to have a valid account with your preferred online gaming provider. The registration option is usually on the landing page of the website or mobile app. Valid online gambling websites do not require too much personal information; all you need to put in is your name, age, email address and valid mode of age and identity verification. The verification is in line with the regulated Know Your Customer requirement. The gaming provider needs to verify that you are a real person and within the regulated age limit.
Make Deposits
Some gambling websites allow you to start your gambling experience without making any deposits, but most gaming operators require you to make a minimum deposit before you can place your bets. These websites often provide welcome bonuses and incentives to their new players. You can receive as high as NZ$200 as a welcome bonus for signing up, while subsequent bonuses like the reload bonus.
May the Odds Be in Your Favour
Online Gambling in New Zealand is growing faster than other industries in the country, but the legal restrictions hamper even further development. Until Online Gambling becomes fully legal in the country, you can try your luck and make the most of the offshore options.