Regulating Gambling
A message from the Department of Internal Affairs | Te Tari Taiwhenua
Kia ora,
Last year, I wrote to all National Sporting Organisations with information about New Zealand's laws on advertising overseas gambling operators. There have been some changes in 2026, so I am writing with an update about these important legal obligations and to seek your assistance in helping touring players and teams avoid inadvertently breaching the law when visiting New Zealand.
Gambling is regulated under the Gambling Act 2003, the Racing Industry Act 2020, and now also by the Online Casino Gambling Act 2026.
Advertising gambling operators that are not licenced in New Zealand is prohibited.1 This includes all overseas sports betting companies. There are also rules explicitly prohibiting sponsorships by online casinos.2
Touring players and teams may not realise that these requirements apply while competing in New Zealand. Significant penalties may apply where prohibited gambling advertising or sponsorship arrangements are displayed during sporting events or in related situations such as training or media interviews. This may include logos and other branding on playing uniforms, training apparel, support staff clothing, equipment, or other materials.
Depending on the type of breach, fines start at $5,000, but some circumstances relating to the display of a prohibited online casino logo may be liable for a penalty of up to $5 million.
I would appreciate your assistance in ensuring that touring players and teams are aware of these requirements before arriving in New Zealand, so they can take steps to comply while here. Where appropriate, it may also be helpful to share this information with members, affiliates, clubs, or event organisers who may host visiting teams.
If you have any questions, please contact gambling@dia.govt.nz.
Ngā mihi,
Vicki Scott
Director Gambling