New Zealand’s Online Casino Gambling Bill is about to start its final lap of parliamentary debate after successfully passing through the Committee of the Whole House.
Members of the country’s Parliament debated the proposed amendments to the bill’s provisions, making one change regarding the administration of the community returns funding.
The bill has now progressed to its third reading, where the House will agree whether or not to pass the bill on for Royal Assent in its final form.
No date has been set for the third reading and the timing will be subject to parliamentary scheduling. If an agreement is reached in the third reading, the bill will move to Royal Assent, after which it will become law.
In an email update to stakeholders, Trina Lowry, Programme Director – Online Gambling Implementation at the Department of Internal Affairs, mentioned that work also continues ‘to support readiness for implementation, including development of regulatory settings, guidance and future communications’.
Lowry said earlier this month that regulation finalisation is ‘expected to be available in early June 2026’.
As part of the three-stage licensing process, up to 15 online casino gambling licences will be up for auction in New Zealand, with the market scheduled to launch later this year on 1 December. The following year, on 1 June 2027, only operators that hold a licence will be allowed to operate in the New Zealand online casino market.
Entain Australia & New Zealand and SkyCity Entertainment Group are two operators that have already expressed their interest in entering the regulated online casino market.
Stella David, Chief Executive Officer of Entain, stated during the group’s 2025 full-year earnings presentation that the company would be seeking three licences in the New Zealand online casino market.
SkyCity CEO Jason Walbridge noted: “Gaming is evolving in exciting ways, bringing together the best of in‑person and digital experiences.
“While we aim to lead this change, our priority is ensuring our customers and communities are protected. Any move into a regulated online market would be built on strong consumer safeguards and SkyCity’s enduring commitment to responsible gambling, so the experience remains safe and enjoyable for everyone.”
