New Zealand names 11 entities cleared to apply for online casino licenses

New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs has announced 11 entities that secured the right to apply for up to 15 online casino licenses following a competitive ascending clock auction. The auction, which involved 32 bidders over 10 rounds, concluded with a price of NZ$15 million per application right.

Among the successful bidders, Baytree Interactive Limited (associated with Betway and Super Group) secured three application rights, the maximum allowed for a single operator. Playvia Gaming (NZ) Limited (linked to Entain) and Rock Swift Group Limited each obtained two rights. SkyCity Entertainment Group also secured two rights through separate entities. Other successful applicants include Stake New Zealand, TAB New Zealand, Christchurch Online NZ, One Casino, Rush Entertainment, and Skill On Net.

Winning an application right does not guarantee regulatory approval. Successful bidders will proceed to submit detailed applications as the country prepares for a regulated iGaming market launch, expected in 2027. From December 1, 2026, operators without a license application will no longer be permitted to offer online gambling in New Zealand.