New Zealand: Adopted Internal Department guideline on prohibition on remote interactive gambling

On 1 November 2021, the Internal Department of New Zealand adopted an outline specifying the regulation under the Gambling Act 2003, section 9(2)(b), which prohibits remote interactive gambling. This includes gambling through communication devices such as computers, telephones, and similar devices, where there is a payment to participate and an element of chance to win money or a prize. Exemptions include sales promotions in the form of a lottery conducted in New Zealand, activities by the New Zealand Lotteries Commission and the New Zealand Racing Board, and all licensed class 3 lottery operators until October 2024. The regulation aims to address the challenges posed by remote interactive gambling and applies penalties for unauthorised gambling activities.