New Zealand Parliament Passes Landmark Online Casino Bill Establishing Strict Licensing and Taxation Framework

New Zealand’s Online Casino Gambling Bill passes final reading, setting a 15-license limit and a 2027 launch date for the regulated iGaming market.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 24, 2026, 10:52 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from iGB

Final Legislative Approval for National iGaming Framework

The Online Casino Gambling Bill successfully cleared its third and final reading in the New Zealand parliament this week, marking a pivotal shift in the nation’s approach to digital wagering. Championed by Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden, the legislation seeks to formalize a sector that previously lacked a comprehensive regulatory structure. With the final parliamentary hurdle cleared, the bill now proceeds to Royal Assent, which officials anticipate will be granted by the end of May.

Competitive Licensing and Operational Requirements

Under the new regime, the Department of Internal Affairs will manage a competitive application process to issue a maximum of 15 licenses to qualified operators. This process is scheduled to begin in July, with a firm application deadline set for December 1, 2026. Entain has already signaled its intent to secure three of the available licenses, leveraging its existing position as the operator of the TAB betting brand. Licensed providers will be required to adhere to rigorous compliance standards designed to ensure market integrity and player safety.

Closing Tax Loopholes and Funding Local Communities

A primary objective of the legislation is the elimination of the gambling tax loophole that allowed offshore entities to operate without contributing to the local economy. Minister van Velden noted that licensed online casinos will now be required to pay taxes in the same manner as any other business operating within New Zealand. Current proposals suggest that 4 percent of operator gross gaming revenue will be allocated to support local sports clubs and grassroots organizations, potentially generating between 10 million and 20 million NZD in the first year of operation.