New Zealand Online Casino and Gambling

Players and bettors that reside in New Zealand are just like any other gambler around the world. They will enjoy playing at local casinos in the country, but will also benefit from the great access of etting sites for Kiwi players. Prior to placing any type of real money bet online, these residents should make sure they understand their gambling laws so they can avoid confusion and choose sites that will offer them the gambling action they desire. Many people have misconceptions regarding the gambling laws in New Zealand, so this should clarify many things for players and bettors.

For New Zealand players, the question of legal online gambling is pretty clear. There is a Gambling Act of 2003, which states that it is not illegal for a New Zealand resident to gamble online as long as the site that is being used is operated off shore. This means that the government does not license, regulate or endorse any online casino that is in the country. In fact, there are stiff penalties for anyone that does try to operate an online gambling site in New Zealand. These laws are similar to those of Aussie players, but New Zealander’s have to use a bit more caution. Australia does not often implement penalties, but the NZ government will fine and even imprison those that attempt to operate any gambling site. In addition, the laws state that it is illegal for any site, including off shore gambling sites, to advertise their services to New Zealand residents.

For those that do choose to gamble in an off shore site, the winnings that are generated are exempt from taxes. There are no provisions that relate to the winnings from online gambling, so players can collect their winnings and not report their profits. Inland Revenue actually considers online gambling as a hobby and will not consider winnings to be a form of income.

These laws pertain to online casinos, but when it comes to Sports Betting, this is actually controlled by the New Zealand Racing Board, which is the only provider of online racing and sports betting services. While there are some great sportsbooks for Kiwi punters, many will prefer to gamble off shore so they have access to a complete online casino as well.

New Zealand bettors should always make sure the site they do select is completely licensed and regulated. The sites should support New Zealand Dollars as a currency and also offer payments through credit cards, prepaid cards, transfers and ewallets. Since there are no online casino sites in New Zealand, players will not have any choice but to choose an off shore casino, so it is important to ensure the safety and security of such sites. This can be done by reading reviews and even contacting the casino site to make sure that NZ players are accepted and that their need will be met when they create an online account.

New Zealand Gambling Resources



Tab.co.nz - New Zealand sports betting.

NZRacing.co.nz - New Zealand horse racing guide.