Key Moments:
- SkyCity Entertainment Group obtained a 15-year casino license extension in Queenstown, effective until 2040.
- The company fully deployed its mandatory Carded Play system across all New Zealand casinos, completing Auckland’s rollout on 22 July.
- Carded Play requires all players to register for a gaming card, promoting safer and more responsible gaming practices.
Extended License Bolsters SkyCity’s Position in Queenstown
SkyCity Entertainment Group has secured a 15-year extension for its Queenstown casino license, ensuring uninterrupted operations in the region up to 2040. Announced in a company filing released on Tuesday, this move represents an important milestone for the gaming operator as it continues to concentrate on steady growth and presence in its core markets.
The renewed license will become effective on 7 December and comes after recent developments for the group in South Australia, where SkyCity Adelaide retained the sole casino license, subject to stringent conditions. This extension signals continued regulatory confidence in SkyCity’s contributions to Queenstown’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
SkyCity CEO Jason Walbridge commented on the development, stating, “We’re delighted with this outcome. We look forward to continuing to play our part in Queenstown’s fantastic range of entertainment for both locals and visitors.”
Strategic Importance of the Queenstown Casino
The Queenstown casino is a strategic asset for SkyCity in New Zealand’s South Island, providing both gaming and non-gaming amenities such as table games, electronic gaming machines, and hospitality services. The long-term operational certainty from the license extension supports the company’s ability to invest in further development in the region.
Implementation of Carded Play Across New Zealand Casinos
Earlier in the year, SkyCity introduced a mandatory Carded Play system at all its New Zealand casino properties. The system, now active across all venues, requires players to use a verified gaming card for both slot machines and table games. The nationwide rollout reached completion in Auckland on 22 July, with previous installations finalized in Queenstown and Hamilton earlier in the month. These measures were detailed in a press release on 23 July.
The ‘SHOW by SkyCity’ card replaces anonymous gaming, requiring participants to register with valid photo identification, either online or at a SkyCity property. This dual-role card functions as an identity verification tool and underpins expanded player protection features.
Enhancing Customer Protection and Player Insight
Though customers retain payment flexibility via cash, QUICK Pay, or Tito tickets, all gaming activity now mandates showing the ‘SHOW by SkyCity’ card before engaging in play. This requirement applies to every gaming product at the company’s New Zealand casinos.
Callum Mallett, SkyCity’s Chief Operating Officer, said, “Carded Play gives us the tools to better support our customers. We can make earlier interventions where needed, and ensure gaming remains a safe and enjoyable experience.”
The card system enables real-time monitoring of player behavior, helping the operator track time spent and visit frequency, with the ability to prompt player breaks or impose play limits. Customers can access a personal dashboard that outlines gaming habits, supporting informed and responsible play. The system also integrates with SkyCity’s enhanced loyalty program, offering further features and incentives for registered users.
Overview of Key Elements
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| License Term | 15 years (until 2040) |
| New System | Mandatory Carded Play across all NZ casinos |
| Latest Rollout Completion | Auckland, 22 July |
| Player Requirement | Registration for ‘SHOW by SkyCity’ card with valid photo ID |
| Key Features | Real-time monitoring, mandatory breaks, integration with loyalty program |
- Author
Daniel Williams
