New Zealand Officially Bans Offshore Bookmakers

^{Pictured: Vicki Scott, Director of Gambling Regulation at New Zealand’s DIA}

New Zealand has passed legislation banning offshore operators from offering betting services within the country, according to Gambling Insider. From now on, the only company legally allowed to operate betting services in New Zealand is the state-run bookmaker Tab NZ.

The new law prohibits any individual or legal entity, other than Tab NZ, from promoting or accepting bets on horse racing or sports from New Zealand residents.

The measure is aimed at keeping gambling expenditure within the local economy. Authorities estimate that New Zealanders spend over $120 million annually with offshore bookmakers.

The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA), which regulates gambling in New Zealand, will oversee compliance and has already notified unlicensed operators that they must immediately exit the local market.

“We expect that responsible gambling operators will respect and comply with this law change. They should close New Zealand accounts and pay outstanding money to customers promptly,” said Vicki Scott, Director of Gambling Regulation at the DIA.

It is worth noting that the new legislation only applies to bookmakers and does not affect online casinos, which are currently unregulated in New Zealand. However, the government is working toward legalizing the online casino industry.

Tab NZ has been managed by UK-based gambling giant Entain since 2023.