Online casino NZ: the 11 entities that may apply for a licence

Where the licence process stands

The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) ran the process in three stages: expressions of interest, an auction and full applications. Winners of the auction were invited to apply, and DIA expects to begin issuing licences from early 2027.

The 11 are companies, not casino brands. DIA will not publish the brands that may operate under a licence until licences are granted, and approved brands will then appear on a public register that DIA owns.

What an NZ online casino licence will change

From 1 December 2026 only the auction winners may serve customers in New Zealand, and they do so under an exemption while their applications are assessed. Every other online casino has to leave the market.

Once licences exist, a licensed casino must show a registration icon on its platform and in its advertising. DIA will keep the public register, so a player can match an icon to an entry.

Until that cut-off nothing changes for customers. Casinos that served New Zealanders before the Act began may carry on, and they may not advertise to people here.

How the 11 were selected

• Expressions of interest were open from 17 July to 14 August 2026.
• The auction ran from 29 September to 12 October 2026, with 32 bidders and 10 rounds. The final price was NZ$15 million per licence.
• Winners were invited to submit full applications on 20 October 2026.
• Baytree Interactive Limited may apply for three licences, Playvia Gaming (NZ) Limited and Rock Swift Group Limited for two each.
• Each licence covers one brand and its platforms, lasts up to three years and can be renewed for five more.

Questions

Is a winning entity already licensed?

No. Winning the auction gives the right to apply. DIA says the successful entities still go through a detailed application and assessment before any licence decision.

Where can I find the casino brands of these companies?

DIA has not published them. After a licence is granted, the brand appears on DIA's register.

What happens to a casino that did not win?

A provider that has not applied for a licence has to stop serving New Zealand customers once the cut-off passes, according to DIA.

Sources

• DIA: information about licensing, page updated 10 November 2026
• DIA: information for players