New Zealand DIA Announces Online Casino License Auction Date

Kiwis are just days away from having a bona fide iGaming framework. The license auction will take place on September 29 as part of the government’s broader effort to bring online casinos under local oversight. However, to safeguard a fair and transparent auction process, DIA keeps bidders' identities confidential. 

An Expression of Interest Doesn’t Mean Getting a License

With the expression of interest (EOI) phase over and nearly 50 bidders moving to the application stage, DIA officials cannot guarantee that keen operators will obtain a license.

Under the new regulatory regime, New Zealand is willing to grant only 15 licenses. Each brand must obtain its own permit to operate in New Zealand. No operator could land more than three permits. Successful applicants will receive an initial authorisation lasting no longer than three years, followed by the possibility of one renewal covering a further five-year period.

At this point, it is known that Stake, 888, Bet365, Betway, and several other brands that are already operating locally or have previously announced plans to do so have publicly expressed their intention to compete for the right to go legitimate in New Zealand.

Will It Affect Players?

Prior to the auction, the government decreed that all licensed casinos would have to provide responsible gambling tools built into every account. The mandatory implementation of monitoring systems to prevent addictive behaviour is a significant step toward safe gameplay. 

Overall, helping New Zealanders control how much they spend and how long they play in a risk-free environment appears to be a thoughtful move that encourages them to consider authorised casinos.