Internet Gambling with Credit Cards Could Get Banned in NZ
Recently updated on January 4th, 2026
New Zealand’s government agency is on a mission to ban internet gambling with credit cards. The New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs is responsible for creating and regulating the gambling industry. One of the many reasons behind the department considering the ban of credit card internet gambling is the launch of SKYCITY Entertainment Group’s internet gambling outfit in New Zealand.
New Zealand currently offers Kiwi players state-run lottery and TAB. The operators are the only two authorised operators allowed to provide internet gambling products in the country. Early 2019 saw SKYCITY partner with Malta-based gambling operator to offer NZ with gambling services online. SKYCITY is evading the existing NZ regulations by basing its operations in Malta.
What does the Credit Card Ban entail?
The details around whether or not the NZ regulator will succeed in banning the use of credit cards for internet gambling are still sketchy. The possible ban is believed to be a part of the protection of local Kiwi gamblers from spending excessive amounts of money on betting. The regulators’ news on the ban follows the UK Gambling Commission announcing a consultation on whether or not the UK should ban credit card internet gambling. Macquarie, an Australian bank, has started blocking transactions that are classified as gambling.
SKYCITY’s Internet Casino
SKYCITY’s Maltese subordinate, SKYCITY Malta is set to run SKYCITY’s internet gambling operation. The operation will be powered by Gaming Innovation Group, a casino gaming and betting online platform.
SKYCITY’s venture has brought about mixed reactions and a worry that the operation would have a hand in the increase of problem gambling cases. The New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs was prompted by concerned Kiwis, which have led to the review of the country’s gambling laws and use of credit cards.
Overview
Internet gambling with credit cards is convenient, and most internet casinos do not charge Kiwi players fees for processing deposits made from credit cards. Convenience is both an advantage and a disadvantage.
Problem gamblers are often pushed into debt by the high-interest rates on transactions charged by the credit card issuer. The ban on credit cards could be useful. However, there are several ways players can make deposits to fund their gambling activities. The ban could essentially work or simply become another gambling inconvenience.
More Casino News
Published by Taralynn
January 4, 2026
Categorie(s): Latest News, New Zealand, North Island, South Island
About the Author
Taralynn Engels is a seasoned casino news writer with a passion for keeping her readers up-to-date with the latest happenings in the gambling industry. With over five years of professional writing experience, Taralynn has developed a deep understanding of the casino industry and a knack for delivering engaging and informative content.
Aside from her in-depth knowledge of the casino industry, Taralynn possesses excellent writing skills that allow her to craft captivating narratives that keep readers hooked until the last word. Her ability to simplify complex concepts and present them in an accessible manner guarantees that her articles are enjoyed by both seasoned casino enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
More Posts from Taralynn.
Related Posts
Published by Mark
April 10, 2026
Categorie(s): Latest News, New Zealand, North Island, South Island
Recently updated on April 10th, 2026Christchurch Casino was one of the first gambling companies to receive an operating licence back in 1993. They received a 25-year licence, and now they are up for a casino licence renewal. However, in new developments, the Gambling Commission has a condition for the gambling company to be able to […]
Published by Taralynn
February 14, 2026
Categorie(s): Latest News, New Zealand, North Island, South Island
Recently updated on February 14th, 2026Due to a crackdown by the UK’s Football Association (FA), Daniel Sturridge has been accused of placing bets. Sturridge has not confirmed these accusations, but there appears to be evidence. Further, the footballer will need to make a formal response by 20 November. According to reports, the former Liverpool player […]
Published by Mark
February 8, 2026
Categorie(s): Big Wins, Latest News, New Zealand, North Island, South Island
Recently updated on February 8th, 2026Earlier this year, SkyCity Hamilton submitted an application to remove three blackjack tables from their casino floors to make space for 60 additional pokie machines. The additional machines would increase the total number of pokies available at the casino to 399. The application did result in opposition from the community. […]
Published by Taralynn
January 25, 2026
Categorie(s): Big Wins, Bonus Codes, Latest News, New Zealand, North Island, Promotions, South Island
Recently updated on January 25th, 2026Gambling Harm Awareness week, also called ‘Pause the Pokies’, was held in early September. The initiative, headed by the Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF), was meant to raise awareness in New Zealand. However, statistics from Pause the Pokies have revealed a larger problem. In Waiuku specifically, PGF experts have shared shocking […]
Published by Taralynn
April 29, 2026
Categorie(s): Latest News, New Zealand, North Island, South Island
Recently updated on April 29th, 2026New Zealand’s racing industry could soon be facing some big changes. Reportedly, the government will be charging a point-of-consumption tax on races in New Zealand. After a review by John Messara, an Australian racing expert, two pieces of legislation are in the works. Firstly, the current racing board will be […]
