New Zealand Cracks Down on ‘Illegal’ Influencer Casino Promotions

Authorities in New Zealand are staging a crackdown on offshore online casinos, including the threat of hefty fines for those who promote them on social media.

The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) said for the first time it has issued takedown notices to influencers promoting overseas gambling operators.

According to Radio New Zealand (RNZ), influencers have been partnering with overseas online-based casinos and staging promotional giveaways, which directly violates New Zealand’s Gambling Act.

“We’ve been investigating this, and we will be taking actions in relation to those influencers who are very publicly and clearly breaking the law,” Vicki Scott, director of gambling regulatory services, told RNZ.

Penalties may include fines up to $10,000 per violation. Four warning letters have already been issued, while 13 others are being investigated.

RNZ obtained a copy of one of the letters, which states: “In this case, I have decided not to prosecute or issue an infringement notice for this offense. However, this letter is a formal warning that I consider that you have committed an offence under section 16 of the Act. Any future breaches of section 16 may result in an infringement notice being issued, or prosecution.

“The Department recommends that you immediately cease posting any reference to overseas online gambling or gambling operators to your social media. This includes any posts made in your likeness by others acting on your behalf (such as social media agencies).”

This comes as the country prepares to introduce regulatory framework for online casino services for early 2026, with up to 15 licenses auctioned off by the government. This would not include sports betting, though full details have yet to be shared.

The proliferation of gambling has raised concerns throughout New Zealand about its impact on the mental health and well-being of residents. As some major companies around the world tighten restrictions on gambling-related content, Maori Public Health is calling for a complete ban, including for influencer marketing.

The group reiterated those feelings in a statement Monday, saying: “What’s really worrying is that these same companies — the ones illegally targeting our people now — could be operating legally here as early as next year. Their current behavior shows exactly how little they care.

“Gambling harm is already ripping through our communities. We can’t let social media become another weapon in that fight.”