Live betting in New Zealand: sports and casino rules in 2026
Reviewed 25 September 2026. “Live betting” can mean in-play sports or racing bets, or online casino games with a live dealer. These activities follow different New Zealand rules. This guide explains the distinction; it does not rank or certify betting websites.
Live sports and racing betting
The Department of Internal Affairs says the prohibition on offshore operators offering sports and racing betting to people in New Zealand took effect under the Racing Industry Amendment Act 2025. TAB NZ is the authorised provider under the current framework. An offshore casino’s availability does not make it an authorised New Zealand sports betting provider. Read our explanation of the racing law.
Live dealer casino games
Live dealer tables are online casino gambling, not live sports bets. The DIA’s player guidance says the Online Casino Gambling Act 2026 is in force, but it expects to start issuing casino licences in early 2027. A website should not be described as holding a New Zealand online casino licence before its licence can be verified through the regulator.
The Act provides for up to 15 online casino licences through a staged process. “Up to 15” is a cap, not a list of 15 approved sites. See the DIA provider timetable and our licence status tracker.
Practical checks before using a service
- Confirm whether the product is sports or racing betting, or an online casino game.
- Read the operator’s identity, terms, withdrawal rules and support information; do not rely on a site’s own licence badge as proof of New Zealand approval.
- Set a spending limit in advance. In-play markets change quickly and losses can mount during a match.
- For help with gambling harm, visit Safer Gambling NZ or call 0800 654 655.
This page was reviewed on 25 September 2026. Check DIA guidance for changes during the licensing transition.
