New Zealand Opens EOI for iGaming Licences as Market Liberalises

New Zealand's Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) has initiated the first phase of issuing iGaming licences, inviting expressions of interest (EOIs) from companies for 15 new online casino licences. This process, beginning on 16 July and effective from Friday, signifies New Zealand's shift from policy planning to practical licensing as the country prepares for market launch in 2027.

Licensing Framework and Requirements

The DIA has specified that applicants must submit their EOIs through the GETS procurement portal by 14 August 2026. Each submission should include a non-refundable fee of NZ$19,000 ($11,082). The government's cap of 15 licences, along with a requirement of NZ$7.5 million in available capital, ensures participation by well-capitalised operators. Additionally, applicants must disclose key officer details, ownership, and management structures. Operators are limited to holding three licences each.

Entain CEO Stella David expressed the company's intention to apply for three licences, taking advantage of its exclusive TAB brand in New Zealand to cross-sell between sports and iGaming.

Emphasis on Compliance and Risk Mitigation

The DIA demands comprehensive documentation from applicants, including credit reports, identification, criminal record clearances, and capital verification. Disclosure of any past regulatory breaches, ongoing investigations, insolvency, or adverse advertising rulings is mandatory. This stringent process underlines New Zealand's focus on probity and harm minimisation within its new online gambling framework.

Next Steps and Timeline Concerns

Following the new Online Casino Gambling Act approved earlier this year, a licence auction is anticipated in September, with successful bidders invited to submit full applications from October. Final iGaming licences are expected by early 2027. The timeline, though slower than some operators hoped, is designed to ensure a robust and considered implementation, prioritising consumer protection and regulatory scrutiny.

According to Jarrod True, director of True Legal, the approach reflects a significant shift from an unregulated offshore market to a tightly controlled, licence-limited regime. He describes the 2027 timetable as intentional, prioritising a seamless transition over a rapid market entry.

Opportunities for Applicants

Operators seeking entry into New Zealand's market should prepare to meet stringent compliance requirements. This involves detailed planning and alignment with the country's vision for a responsible and well-regulated online casino environment. With the opportunity to hold multiple licences, well-prepared operators like Entain can leverage their existing brands and market presence.

New Zealand’s proactive approach in overseeing the rollout ensures a thoroughly regulated environment that promises consumer protection and balanced market participation.