Skip to main content

Christchurch Casino License Review Hearing Underway

Recently updated on January 5th, 2026

Christchurch Casino is the first Kiwi casino up for a license review. While the current Christchurch Casino license is valid until November of 2019, the New Zealand Gambling Commission is now taking submissions from interested parties. These parties include casino representatives, the City Council and the Problem Gambling Foundation.

Roughly 70 submissions were filed with the Commission. Starting on Tuesday, interested parties could also give oral submissions in a hearing. Skyline Enterprises operates the casino, and already applied for the next license in March. Reportedly, the operator paid approximately NZ$200 000 in application fees to start the process.

Christchurch Casino License Renewal Requests Submitted – NZ News

Charity Contributions for Christchurch Casino

One of the expected stipulations of Christchurch Casino’s license renewal is a charity contribution. According to reports, the casino will need to pay 2.5% of net profits to charity or NZ$500 000. In 2017, profits amounted to NZ$16.1 million. Using the condition, this means they would need to contribute NZ$402 500 to charities. Currently, SkyCity Auckland has to follow these guidelines.

However, the casino believes this requirement should be NZ$250 000 because it has less facilities. SkyCity Auckland has 150 gaming tables and more than 1800 slots. In comparison, Christchurch Casino has only 36 gaming tables and 50 pokies. As the review progresses, this could be taken into account for the final requirement.

Another suggested contribution for charitable causes is a discretionary fund. This fund should amount to NZ$100 000. Any leftover monies at the end of the year will be added to charitable funds.

Christchurch Casino License Review

Christchurch Casino opened in 1994, and received a license for 25 years. As the first land-based casino in New Zealand, it is also the first to renew its license. This review will set the standard for other casinos due to renew their licenses in 2020 and beyond. So, for updates on this story, keep visiting New Zealand Casinos.



Related Posts

High-Roller Refuses to Pay $43.3 Million Baccarat Losses Because Dealer Made Mistakes

Recently updated on April 1st, 2026A Singaporean high-roller is causing the Star Gold Coast Casino in Queensland a very expensive headache. The player is refusing to pay back the $43.3 million he lost during a week-long baccarat session. The casino had flown him in on its private jet, hoping that he would make them some […]

Encore Boston Harbor Dragged into Blackjack and Slots Cheating Scandal

Encore Boston Harbor

Recently updated on January 17th, 2026Just a few weeks after their grand opening, Encore Boston Harbor is already facing cheating charges. Several governing investigations, a torrent of criticism over why the businesses management had not addressed its employees’ allegations appropriately, and two heavy charges later. A $20 million fine by the Nevada Gaming Control Board […]

Novomatic AG Finalises Ainsworth Pokies Acquisition

Novomatic AG Acquires Ainsworth Pokies NZ

Recently updated on January 10th, 2026Gaming software giant, Novomatic AG, has just bought controlling shares in their Australian rival, Ainsworth Game Technology Limited. Their 52% stake in the company has been approved by a number of regulatory bodies. More so, the deal was finalised last Friday before founder, Len Ainsworth, announced that he would be […]

Best New Pokies 2021 List

Best New Pokies 2021 Released

Recently updated on April 30th, 2026New Pokies 2021 releases are our favourite online casino games because so many are released during a month. We’ve collected the games we’re most excited about, with some exclusive bonuses to enjoy them. Our top-rated casino sites are also offering exciting free spins for new releases to existing players. So, […]

New Zealand Casinos
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.