Gambling is a widespread and significant part of life in New Zealand. Since the 1830s, the traditional ways of gambling i.e. sports betting and lotteries have been commonplace and are found in the casinos around the country. Gambling in the country is regulated by the State Internal Affairs Department.When it comes to online casinos, New Zealanders are prohibited by law from playing online in casinos within the borders of the country. However, they can play in online casinos provided that the online casino is based outside the country, so there should be no fear for Kiwis who wish to play in online casinos as long as the law is observed. If players are bent on gambling in New Zealand-based casino operators, they are limited to the nation’s 6 traditional casinos, slot machines, sports betting and lottery games. Players who choose online casinos based elsewhere have access to all leading games such as poker, blackjack, keno, craps, roulette and slots.
The New Zealand Gambling Act
The law on online casinos legalizes depositing and withdrawing of money with international casinos as long as they are not based in New Zealand. The money transacted between a player and an online casino is usually not subjected to taxation. The most popular online Casinos accept the national currency NZD, making it easier for players to play, monitor transactions and withdraw their money in local currency.
There being no local online casinos in New Zealand, players will have to rely and trust gaming laws from the country of origin of the online casino they choose to play at. These calls for scrutiny and a keen eye when it comes to the sites that Kiwis choose to play in. A reputable online casino needs to have gone through stringent online security and protection testing and checks, such as having proper licenses, tests on encryption and fairness in gaming procedures. One of the things to check for on international online casinos is the eCOGRA logo which is proof of certification of a casinos’ suitability based on security protocols as well as general rules of fair play.
New Zealanders who would like to put up wagers will be glad to hear that many international Casinos are offering free spins upon registration to their sites in a bid to attract many more new players.
The two most popular websites to pick up no deposit casino bonuses are CasinoReviews.net.nz and CrispyGamer.com.
New Zealand’s regulations on gambling, though very strict, are focused on ensuring compliance with the law, shutting down all illegal operators and protecting citizens. The government does not however have jurisdiction over casinos based outside the borders of New Zealand so in the event that a New Zealander is aggrieved by an online casino, they cannot raise a complaint with the local authorities. The onus is on all players to ensure that they conduct due diligence on online gaming sites before committing their
money.
Players can report errant gaming sites to the body that is responsible for licensing online casinos. Certifying bodies such as eCOGRA will also handle disputes involving casino operators that are certified by them.