Key Moments:
- New Zealand’s Government will ban credit card deposits at licensed online casinos under new regulations.
- The Online Casino Bill, now in Parliament, could legalize up to 15 online casinos and require a share of gross gambling revenue for charities.
- This move mirrors Australia, which banned credit card gambling in mid-2024.
New Credit Card Restrictions Revealed
The New Zealand Government announced that licensed online casinos can no longer accept credit card deposits. Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden highlighted this restriction as a key part of the Online Casino Bill. She said it aims to protect consumers from financial harm. If the legislation passes, up to 15 online casinos could operate legally and advertise in the country starting late next year.
Lawmakers consider the credit card ban a major concession. Many MPs remain unconvinced about other parts of the bill. Debates resumed in 2026 after initial discussions in September 2025. These discussions focus on problem gambling and debt caused by online wagering. Specific regulatory language about credit cards is still being finalized.
Legislators Aim to Curb Gambling Debt
Brooke van Velden stressed that the ban will help prevent individuals from falling into destructive debt cycles. She stated, “I did not want people using online gambling to get further into debt and end up in a cycle.”
Officials estimate that licensing online casinos could generate NZ$44 million ($25.6 million) for the government. Operators must also contribute four percent of gross gambling revenue to designated charities and community organizations. While these measures aim to strengthen responsible gambling, some critics question their effectiveness and enforceability.
Industry Response and Criticism
Martin Cheer, managing director of Pub Charity, questioned whether the credit card ban will be enough to deter operators from seeking licenses. He expressed doubts about enforcement, noting that “nobody does bank transfers,” implying that players may prefer alternative transaction methods.
Alignment with Australian Regulations
New Zealand’s approach follows Australia, which banned credit cards and some digital payment methods for online gambling in mid-2024. The Interactive Gambling Amendment prevents online wagering providers from accepting credit cards, related financial products, or digital currencies. Violators can face penalties of up to AU$247,500 ($165,190).
The Australian reforms aimed to reduce harm from easy access to credit for gambling. Consumer advocacy and banking groups supported the changes. However, critics warn of unintended effects, such as players shifting to alternative payment methods or moving to offshore operators beyond domestic control.
Charitable Revenue and Casino Licensing Overview
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| License Cap | Up to 15 online casinos |
| Expected License Revenue | NZ$44 million ($25.6 million) |
| Mandatory Charity Contribution | 4% of gross gambling revenue |
| Implementation Timeline | Late next year (pending passage in Parliament) |
- Author
Daniel Williams
