Home » SkyCity Gets Warning From DIA for Advertising Malta Casino to Players
SkyCity Gets Warning From DIA for Advertising Malta Casino to Players
Recently updated on July 8th, 2020
On Monday, the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) issued a formal warning to SkyCity Entertainment Group for emailing customers in March. Reportedly, the operator emailed customers in March, just days before Alert Level 4 was unveiled.
In the email to loyalty program members, the company reportedly informed customers that its Malta-based casino was still operating. After a player filed a complaint, the DIA launched a month-long investigation into the email. Then it found that SkyCity had violated section 16 of the 2003 Gambling Act, which bans advertising overseas gambling.
However, the DIA also found that SkyCity had unknowingly broken the law. So, according to Acting Director Chris Thornborough, the department decided that a formal warning would be enough.
DIA Regulators Expect Caution from Operator
In further comments, Mr Thornborough explained that the DIA had assumed that SkyCity hadn’t intentionally breached the legislation. Though, to avoid further violations, the company was warned to be extremely careful from now on.
Since SkyCityCasino.com only accepts players from New Zealand, it is subject to Kiwi laws, which don’t regulate casino gambling. Still, the DIA can go after companies illegally using .nz domains and advertising to players.
Still, SkyCity claims that the email only meant to “advise customers of the overall impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic” on the company. Also, it maintains that it didn’t break the rules, but it does respect the department’s views.
Land-Based Casinos Reopen
As one of the few countries to completely flatten the curve, New Zealand is slowly reopening this month. Included in the list opening list are some casinos, but there are strict conditions. All of SkyCity’s three casinos are allowed to operate after nearly 900 job losses.
But, it’s not back to normal for the company, because strict health and safety measures are still going to in effect. Still, the casinos will all be back to regular operating hours this week, under the DIA and Prime Minister’s directives.
Keep visiting our website for more stories like this!
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.
Recently updated on April 18th, 2019Caliente Group, in partnership with Euro Games Technology (EGT), opened its first gaming lounge in Latin America. The gaming lounge is Hipódromo de Agua Caliente Casino in Tijuana, Mexico. Their partnership hopes to solidify its position in the Mexican gaming market. The general director of Caliente Group, Eduardo Hernandez said […]
Recently updated on August 28th, 2018While gambling participation is declining in New Zealand, a new study has revealed that Māori and Pacific peoples remain at risk. According to the findings of the Auckland University study, this ethnic group is at a higher risk thanks to a higher number of poker machines. Part of the problem […]
Recently updated on April 21st, 2019A recent survey from Roy Morgan Research has revealed that younger Australians are gambling less nowadays. The study which was conducted in December 2018 involved seven thousand individuals. It found that the number of Aussie adults taking part in some form of gambling is down to 47.9% from 50.1% in […]
Recently updated on March 20th, 2019The software gaming legend NetEnt has released horse racing Scudamore pokie in honour of celebrated jockey Peter Scudamore. One has to admire NetEnt who always produces casino gaming that appeals to our Kiwi gamblers. In New Zealand, horse racing is a sport with a large following. Therefore, the adaptation of […]
Recently updated on August 3rd, 2018Swedish gambling laws are set to change on 1 January 2019, ending a monopoly on the online gambling industry in the country. At least 70 applications are expected to be made by gaming firms, with 22 already submitted. All newly licensed international operators will be taxed 18% to offer gaming, […]