Online casinos have come a long way in New Zealand! It went through many regulations and restrictions since it started gaining popularity among New Zealanders. In the past, it was only legal to bet on horse racing. Yet, in 2023 online casinos offer more (and better) options to bet with class! 

Today, there are still laws that every gambler should know. The most important rule is that the platform can’t be established inside the territory if you want to play in a New Zealand casino online; without getting penalized.
This article covers everything, including legal aspects, how you can deposit money, and more important things that will help you set a bet in online casinos from New Zealand.

What Are the Laws For Gambling in New Zealand?

The  Racing Act 2020 and the Gambling Act 2003 are the current laws governing gambling legislation in New Zealand. The Racing Act controls sports betting like horse racing. In the same way, Gambling Act 2003 points out that there are two illegal types of online gambling prohibited: 

- Remote interactive gambling
- Bookmaking

What's more, a player needs to be 20 years old or older to play in a casino online. 

Who Regulates The Gaming Industry Inside New Zealand?

The Department of Internal Affairs regulates gambling in New Zealand. This is an extension of the Gaming Commission. They are in charge of providing licenses for casino operators. For international casinos, three commissions provide licenses: 

- UK Gaming Commission
- Curacao Gaming Commission
- Malta Gaming Authority

What Games Can You Find in A Legal Online Casino in New Zealand?

According to the Department of Internal Affairs is legal to play the following casino games:

- Slot machines
- Horse racing
- Lotteries
- Sports gambling
- Online casino tables

It’s also legal to play on real money if a casino is not located in New Zealand. Many worldwide sites accept New Zealand Dollars for depositing money. You can also play at these casinos if you bet in another currency or with cryptocurrencies. 

About Online Gambling Taxes

All gambling activities are subject to a tax calculated as a percentage of your winnings. Yet, this tax doesn’t apply to online casinos because there are currently no legal online gambling sites in the country. 
This means you’re earning net profits from your winnings.

How To Find a Trustable Online Casino

If you're looking for a trustable online casino, there are a few things you can do to help ensure your safety:

- Check out the casino’s reputation and what people say about them
- See if they’re regulated under the Commissions mentioned before
- Identify reliable payment methods
- Check if they’re allied with recognized game providers

And most importantly, look for a casino outside New Zealand. This way, you will avoid getting banned and penalized by the country's government.