New Zealand

As the sports gambling laws in NZ do not affect offshore sports betting sites and apps, basically any online sportsbook can offer all forms of sports wagering options to Kiwi bettors with no restrictions. This leads to the fact that every New Zealander has hundreds of sports betting apps and sites to choose from.

In addition, as there are really no restrictions regarding offered betting markets, Kiwis can freely use these overseas sports betting operators to wager on any event or competition they wish, including eSports, for example. Regarding horse race betting, TAB is the most used platform for such activity, but many offshore operators can also take such bets from Kiwis.

In-person is limited to on-course horse race wagering and 550 TAB betting stores scattered around the country.

The State of NZ Sports Betting & Gambling: What’s Happening Now?

• January 22, 2025: New Zealand’s Rangitīkei District Council launches a public review of its Gambling Venue and TAB Venue policies. Reassessed every three years, these regulations govern pokie machines and gambling venues to align with national laws and community needs.

• December 10, 2024: New Zealand aim to phase out greyhound racing by August 2026 due to persistent animal welfare concerns. Despite industry improvements, investigations revealed ongoing injuries, deaths, and mistreatment. Deputy PM Winston Peters emphasized that safeguarding the dogs’ well-being was the driving force behind the government's decision, Sky News reported.

• December 9, 2024: New Zealand explores legal online gambling regulation by 2026, with a proposal to expand TAB NZ’s monopoly. Currently controlling sports betting, including horse and greyhound racing, Racing Minister Winston Peters’ plan would give TAB exclusive rights to online wagering and racing bets, RNZ reports.

• August 9, 2024: New Zealand plans to regulate online casino gambling by 2026, targeting games like slots, poker, and table games, but the future of online sports betting and lotteries is unclear. According to Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden, the planned legal gambling framework could add strict limitations on gambling ads and set bans on offering casino games alongside sports betting or lottery.

As it is, pretty much all forms of online gambling are available to the Kiwis, including online casino slots, table games, online poker, and bingo games either via the TAB NZ platform or hundreds of different offshore gambling sites. Lottery also plays a part in the NZ gambling scene, and the first national lotto draw was held on 1 August 1987.

Fans of real-money gambling can also find six land-based casinos in New Zealand, most of which are owned by the Skycity Entertainment Group. However, it's vital to note that the age limit to access these retail casinos is +20, while online sports betting and gambling are subject to +18 age limits.

Gambling and the kiwi psyche: Why NZ players bet differently than the rest of the world

New Zealanders have a unique relationship with gambling, shaped by the country's culture, history, and even geography. Unlike many other nations where gambling is seen as purely recreational or profit-driven, Kiwis tend to approach betting with a mix of pragmatism and social connection wheter its about weekly lottery ticket or casual rugby bet.

One major factor influencing Kiwi gambling habits is New Zealand's historical isolation. With fewer land-based casinos and limited local betting options compared to larger countries, online gambling has become a major part of the scene. Many players turn to offshore betting sites, not just for variety but also for better odds and bigger promotions. This independence in gambling choices reflects the classic Kiwi "DIY" mentality—if local options aren't good enough, they'll find their own way.

Kiwis have always had a bit of a daring spirit, whether it's in the great outdoors or at the betting counter. There's a natural confidence in taking a chance, especially when it comes to sports. Rugby betting, in particular, feels like second nature to many—more than just a wager, it's a way of backing what they know. With a deep understanding of the game, many punters don't see it as luck but as a calculated decision.

Kiwis are usually known for their laid-back attitude towards gambling, which sets them apart from intense "Try hard" punters. Most players see it as entertainment (as it should), keeping bets relatively small and manageable. When done responsibly, gambling in NZ can be a fun, social, and even rewarding experience.

Casino crimes in New Zealand: The wildest real-life scandals

New Zealand's gambling industry may be well-regulated, but that hasn't stopped some bold attempts at fraud and illegal betting. From stolen funds to underground poker rings, the country has seen its fair share of gambling-related crime.

An Auckland bank worker stole over $260,000 to fuel his gambling habit, approving fake loans while working from home. His luck ran out when auditors caught on, leaving him in legal trouble with most of the money lost at SkyCity Casino.

Illegal poker games have also made headlines, with one Lower Hutt man running a secret high-stakes gambling operation that laundered over $600,000. For years, he hosted exclusive games before police shut it down, seizing cash and assets in the process.

Fraudsters have even tried to scam gambling grant programs. One Aucklander attempted to claim $73,000 by impersonating community organizations, but authorities caught on before any money was paid. Even major casino operators haven't been immune—Christchurch Casino faced allegations of failing to follow anti-money laundering laws, raising concerns about regulatory oversight.

Presented stories are just a glimpse into the fascinating world of gambling-related true crime. A typical user is not part of any of the presented activities just by using and having fun with a legit sportsbook.