The New Zealand Esports Federation (NZESF), a government-recognized national sporting organization, is set to collaborate with the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) to incorporate the commission's integrity program into its operations and all sanctioned events. Alongside regulating and governing esports in New Zealand, the federation aims to provide a pathway for young esports players to advance in their competitive careers.
Ben Lenihan, president of NZESF, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, "Part of our mandate as an NSO is to monitor and enforce the integrity of events sanctioned by us. This is becoming increasingly relevant as gambling becomes a bigger part of the world of esports. We have engaged with ESIC in order to be able to supply sanctioned tournament operators with world-class monitoring and investigation services."
ESIC commissioner Ian Smith expressed appreciation for the NZESF's efforts, noting, "ESIC acknowledges the NZESF’s commitment and dedication to a uniform and global standard for competitive integrity in esports. As a member of ESIC, the NZESF will be able to engage with us on issues that are centrally related to youth protection and competitive integrity. Furthermore, the NZESF’s members will enjoy the benefit of a global network of information relating to the maintenance of competitive integrity in events."
In April, ESIC addressed concerns about a perceived "false narrative" that it served the interests of the esports betting industry.
