New Zealand reveals shortlist for online casino market

Eleven operators secured rights in the recent auction ahead of the regulated market launch.

Written by the BettingEdgeHub desk, 14 October 2026

New Zealand released the results of an online casino licence auction. The Department of Internal Affairs published a list of eleven approved operators. The regulated market is expected to launch in 2027, although a specific date is not set.

Auction results and limits

The auction began with thirty two bidders and lasted ten rounds. Each available licence cost about fifteen million New Zealand dollars. Every operator can hold a maximum of three licences.

Baytree Interactive secured three licences through bidding. Playvia Gaming obtained two licences, while Stake and several other companies also secured entry. TAB New Zealand secured a licence through a partnership.

Licence rules and timelines

Each licence allows a brand to operate for three years. Operators can apply to extend this validity for another five years. Starting from December 2026, companies cannot offer online casino gaming without a pending licence application.

The wagering requirement for these future platforms was not stated in the official announcement. Regulators will manage the final steps before the market opens to players.

What it means for a bet

Punters can expect major global brands to launch regulated online casino sites in New Zealand by 2027.

Carry on from here

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