26 June 2026
Q&As have had a refresh
The questions and answers section of our website has recently been refreshed to reflect the
high level of interest and engagement from the sector, and to provide clearer, more
comprehensive guidance in response to your queries.
We have now published a consolidated set of questions and answers, which can be accessed from the provider section of our website.
An update on market participation
As the expression of interest stage of New Zealand's online casino gambling licensing process will be commencing shortly, the Department of Internal Affairs (the Department) would like to provide an update on who can participate in the licensing process.
In response to queries, the Department has reassessed its interpretation of legislation and is now of the view that there are no statutory barriers preventing TAB NZ from lodging an expression of interest (and if successful in the expression of interest and auction process, apply for a licence).
The Department acknowledges that our earlier advice to Ministers on this eligibility was incorrect. Communication to the sector reflected the Department’s understanding at the time, and we now need to update you accordingly.
All prospective providers will be required to complete the three-stage licensing process. This process ensures that up to 15 potential providers who have secured the right, through auction, to apply for a licence are thoroughly assessed against the eligibility and suitability criteria set out in the Online Casino Gambling Act 2026 before any licence is granted.
Prepare now for EOI
Pending formal notification, we anticipate that expressions of interest will open in the second half of July. With this in mind, we strongly encourage online casino providers who wish to submit an expression of interest to start preparing now the relevant documents and information required.
The full requirements are outlined in the expression of interest guidance document, which should be read alongside our recently updated Q&As document.
Entity documents
A reminder that for each entity submitting an expression of interest, the following documents will need to be provided:
- entity documentation (for example certificate of incorporation, trust documents, constitution, articles of association, memorandum of association and any amendment documents or any other incorporation or establishment document)
- a diagram of current ownership structure which shows equity and control percentages and is both signed and dated by a key officer within the last six months from the date the complete expression of interest package is submitted
- a diagram of the management structure
- documentation that verifies the amount and source(s) of capital available
- certified credit check or report from a legitimate organisation, dated within 90 days of the date the complete expression of interest package is submitted.
As outlined in the expression of interest guidance document, depending on an entity's circumstances, further information may also need to be provided.
Key officer documents
For each key officer the following documents and information will need to be provided:
- certified photographic identification
- criminal record check (one from every jurisdiction where the key officer has spent more than six consecutive months within the past five years)
- certified credit check or report from a legitimate organisation, dated within 90 days of the date the complete expression of interest package is submitted.
Sign up for GETS
We also strongly recommend that interested providers register on the Government Electronic Tenders (GETS) website. This is the platform that the all three stages of the licensing process will be conducted.
In July you can expect to hear from us again with confirmation on the expression of interest dates and details, as well as our detailed guidance packs. These packs will provide a comprehensive overview of the legislation, regulations, and Minimum Standards.
Ngā mihi nui,
Trina Lowry
Programme Director - Online Gambling Implementation
