New Zealand launches regulated online gambling market

The draft law on the regulation of online casinos provides for:

The issuance of 15 licenses. Only one license per website or brand and a maximum of one per operator.
Each license will be valid for three years. There is also the possibility of a one-time extension for another five years.
The tax rate will be 12% of GGR in 2026 and 16% from 2027. An additional 15% GST (goods and services tax) is also expected to be added on top.
Strict advertising restrictions: a ban on any online casino advertising between 6:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.; promotion of such products on social media, through influencers and sponsorships.
Obligation for operators: to implement player protection tools.
Strict compliance with the new rules by all operators or leaving the country’s market.

The first license is planned to be issued by December 2026.