As the Trans-Tasman regulatory landscape continues to diverge, authorities in New Zealand have confirmed they will not immediately adopt Australia’s sweeping gambling advertising restrictions.
Instead, the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) is prioritizing the structural formalization of its domestic iGaming sector, with the landmark Online Casino Gambling Bill expected to be enacted by May 2026.
A Structural Priority over Advertising Curbs
The DIA has indicated that New Zealand’s immediate focus remains on bringing the currently unregulated offshore market under local oversight. The pending legislation will establish a licensing system allowing for up to 15 operators, effectively ending the nation’s “grey market” by December 1, 2026.
While Australia moves toward outright restrictions on sports betting gambling advertising during live games and commute times, New Zealand officials are opting for a “wait-and-see” approach.
“The Minister for Racing intends to observe the new system before considering further regulation,” the DIA stated, emphasizing that any future domestic action would be rooted in data rather than reactionary policy.
Proposed Safeguards and Regulatory Reality
Though New Zealand is delaying a total ad ban, the new casino framework will include stringent advertising “features” designed to protect vulnerable demographics. These include:
- Prohibitions on ads during programs with significant child audiences.
- Bans on the sponsorship of racing bets and use of social media influencers.
- Restrictions on placements where more than 20% of viewers are under 18.
The Racing Industry Amendment Act 2025 provides the legal foundation for these measures, which include penalties of up to NZ$5 million for companies that target minors.
Economic and Public Pressure
The decision arrives amidst intense lobbying from over 50 national sports groups who warn that aggressive advertising curbs could dismantle essential community funding streams. Conversely, the Advertising Standards Authority has reported a record 955 complaints regarding gambling promotions, prompting a comprehensive review of its code of conduct later this year.
By focusing on operator licensing first, New Zealand aims to create a “monitored system with robust safeguards” before addressing the more politically sensitive issue of broad media prohibitions.
