New Zealand Bans Offshore Racing and Betting Operators
New Zealand has officially implemented a law that bans offshore operators from offering online racing and sports betting services in the jurisdiction. The legislation forms part of the amendments to the Racing Industry Act 2020, which have now received Royal Assent.
LISTEN TO THIS ARTICLE:The regulations, which took effect on June 28, 2025, cement TAB NZ's position as the sole provider of online racing and sports betting in New Zealand. It is now prohibited for any other individual or organization to offer or facilitate betting on racing or sports to people physically located in New Zealand.
Additionally, the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) has issued a blanket order requiring all international online betting operators to withdraw from the New Zealand market.
While TAB NZ gains a monopoly, it will also face increased scrutiny as the regulations grant new powers to the government to regulate gambling harm and protect customers.
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.
"We encourage gamblers based in New Zealand to be aware of the risks of placing sports or racing bets with providers other than the TAB and betcha brands. If an overseas company is offering you these bets, they are breaking the law here.
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Entain Benefits from Monopoly
According to the government, the goal of the new law is to increase revenue for the state-backed operator, thereby supporting New Zealand's racing and sports industry. This arrangement significantly benefits Entain, who has managed TAB NZ since May 2023, as it essentially makes it the only legal online betting operator in the country.
In its response to the development, the operator said it plans to enhance the onshore betting experience, complete with robust, safer gambling features. It has also pledged to pay an additional NZ$100 million to TAB NZ upon implementing the offshore betting ban.
Entain is proud to be building on TAB NZ's legacy of racing and sport in New Zealand and is privileged to provide an engaging betting experience to Kiwis. This legislative amendment further deepens our commitment to the industry. Alongside the ongoing efforts from government, members and sponsorship, we are honoured that Entain's financial support of sporting and racing codes through our strategic partnership, plays a role in strengthening communities and teams across New Zealand.
New Zealand Introduces Online Casino Bill
In related news, the New Zealand government has introduced the online casino gambling bill to the House of Representatives, marking a major milestone in the country's regulation of online gambling. It comes shortly after the DIA invited online casino operators to register their interest in the upcoming licensing process.
The bill provides up to 15 online casino licenses and will permit advertising under strict rules. Operators without a license will face fines of up to NZ$5 million and be barred from the market.
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