New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) has confirmed that the country will begin the licensing process for online casino operators in July. The enabling legislation is expected to receive final approval in May, paving the way for the launch of a regulated iGaming market.

The regulator plans to implement a three-stage licensing process with a strict cap of 15 operators allowed to enter the market. The first phase will involve companies submitting expressions of interest to operate in New Zealand, with the application window expected to remain open for one to two months. This will be followed by a license auction lasting up to two months.

Operators that secure licenses in the auction will move to the final stage — a detailed compliance and background review, which could take between four and six months. Successful applicants will receive licenses valid for up to three years, with the option to renew. The final deadline for submitting applications has been set for December 1, 2026.

After that date, any operator offering services without a license will be required to leave the market. Violations could lead to fines of up to NZ$5 million (around $3 million) as well as forced market exit. Authorities estimate that New Zealand players currently spend more than NZ$750 million (about $444 million) annually on offshore gambling platforms, which has accelerated efforts to introduce regulation.

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