Department of Internal Affairs (DIA)
The DIA is the primary regulator of gambling in New Zealand. It administers the Gambling Act 2003, issues gambling licences, monitors compliance, and takes enforcement action against unlicensed operators. Under the incoming online casino licensing framework, the DIA will issue licences to online casino operators and maintain a public register at dia.govt.nz.
The Gambling Commission
The Gambling Commission is an independent statutory body that hears appeals against DIA licensing decisions and considers applications for casino licences. It operates separately from the DIA to provide an independent check on licensing decisions. The Commission's decisions are published and publicly available.
Problem Gambling Foundation
The Problem Gambling Foundation (PGF) is a non-governmental organisation funded by the Ministry of Health. It provides counselling, support services, and public education about problem gambling. Licensed operators are required to contribute to the problem gambling levy, which funds services like those provided by the PGF.
Accredited testing laboratories
Licensed casinos must use games and systems certified by accredited testing laboratories. These labs — including eCOGRA, GLI, and BMM Testlabs — independently verify that RNGs are fair, RTPs match published figures, and game software operates as described. Certification is a condition of licensing.
The Advertising Standards Authority
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) oversees gambling advertising in New Zealand. It administers the Code for Advertising Gambling, which sets rules about responsible advertising, restrictions on targeting minors, and requirements for responsible gambling messaging. Complaints about gambling advertising can be lodged with the ASA.