New Zealand will begin its online casino licence auction on September 29th, with successful expression-of-interest applicants now invited to participate, according to a Department of Internal Affairs communication reported by
The department has declined to disclose how many applicants have qualified or identify the participants, citing fairness and the integrity of the auction. Its outcome will be made public.
Trina Lowry, the department’s programme director for online gambling implementation, said acceptance of an expression of interest “does not guarantee that an online casino gambling operator will be invited to apply for a licence or that a licence will be granted”.
Up to 15 licences will be available, each covering a single brand and its platforms. No operator may hold more than three. Licences will run for up to three years, with the possibility of renewal for a further five years.
Bidding will use an ascending clock auction, with prices rising in rounds until demand matches the number of licences available.
Successful bidders can then submit full licence applications, scheduled to open in October, including business plans and proposals for advertising, consumer protection, harm prevention and compliance.
Existing providers that have not applied for a licence must cease operating in New Zealand from December 1st. Applicants can continue without advertising while their submissions are considered. The licensed regime is expected to be fully operational in 2027.
Tags: New Zealand Online Casino Licence, Online Casino, Casino Gambling
