On Tuesday, New Zealand's Department of Internal Affairs announced that eleven operators have secured the right to apply for online casino licenses after a successful expression of interest auction. This auction concluded at a total price of NZ$15 million (US$8.42 million) for each license. A competitive bidding process, featuring 32 bidders and spanning ten rounds, resulted in 15 licenses being available.
Among the successful bidders are notable entities including Baytree Interactive Limited, which secured three rights; Playvia Gaming (NZ) Limited, a subsidiary of Entain, and Rock Swift Group Limited, each acquiring two rights. Other successful applicants include Christchurch Online NZ Limited, One Casino Limited, Rush Entertainment Limited, Skill On Net Limited, two branches of SkyCity NZ Online, Stake, and TAB New Zealand (an Entain joint venture).
The auction utilized an ascending clock format, where the prices increased gradually and bidders indicated their interest at each stage. It wrapped up when the number of bidders remaining aligned with the 15 available licenses, ensuring a clear and transparent process.
However, winning a right to apply does not automatically translate to receiving a license. Each operator must now pass through a rigorous application and regulatory assessment to secure a formal license for online gambling operations. The identities of the brands that will operate under these licenses will be clarified on a public register once granted.
Stake New Zealand Limited expressed excitement about its position in the regulated market. A spokesperson for Stake characterized the auction result as a significant achievement in its broader effort to expand internationally, having recently entered markets in Alberta, Argentina, and Mexico. "It’s a strong fit for Stake and another important step in growing our presence globally,” they stated, looking forward to the evolving process in New Zealand.
Entain, having obtained rights to apply for two licenses, initially aimed for three. CEO Stella David had highlighted the company’s position during its FY25 earnings call, noting that TAB, its betting brand in New Zealand, is uniquely positioned to offer cross-selling opportunities between sports betting and iGaming. Despite prior concerns regarding TAB's licensing eligibility due to its betting monopoly, the operator will officially join the other successful applicants in the licensing process.
This auction represents the second phase in a three-part process aimed at liberalizing iGaming in New Zealand. The first phase commenced in March, wherein potential operators had to demonstrate compliance capability, including having access to at least NZ$7.5 million and a non-refundable application fee of NZ$19,000. Any operators who fail to apply for a license by December will be required to halt operations by December 1. The final phase involving the approval of iGaming licenses based on auction participation and comprehensive applications is expected to begin in early 2027.
