Many countries are regulating iGaming to control the gambling market within their borders. While countries like the US and UK have strict iGaming laws, New Zealand has a more casual approach. As such, there are various of the best online casinos available to Kiwi players if they know how to find them. Below, we look at the current iGaming laws in NZ, what’s on the horizon, the best casinos on sites like Bestcasino.com/NZ/ and how Kiwi players can evaluate and identify them.
Legality of NZ Online Casinos
New Zealand iGaming laws state that no gambling operator can establish themselves within the country’s borders. As such, there are no locally based online casino platforms. Only horse racing and lottery are licensed by the NZ Racing Board (TAB) and Lotto NZ.
However, these laws have no clause that states it’s illegal for offshore casinos to offer services to Kiwi players. Players can legally use any offshore casino with a licence that allows players from New Zealand to sign up. As such, there are hundreds of options available.
Will NZ Implement New iGaming Regulations?
There’s no news of these laws changing anytime soon. However, some submissions and public consultations advise the benefits of regulating online gambling. Since offshore gambling doesn’t provide a return for the NZ government many believe it requires updated laws regulating online casino sites.
The last public report was submitted to the Minister of Internal Affairs in 2019, though it’s become a general topic of concern again recently. Many believe that after the recent update in land-based gambling regulations, a review of the online iGaming laws might soon follow.
Criteria for Choosing a Casino
Currently, it’s still legal to play at various online casino sites. However, since you’re not covered by New Zealand regulations when playing at offshore casinos, you must evaluate these casinos using the following criteria.
Vast Game Selection
The entire reason you’re playing at an online casino is to try out the casino games so always search for a casino that makes an effort to list all of the best slots available and check whether there are popular table games and a decent selection of live dealer titles and as a bonus check if the operator offers a sportsbook.
This selection of games allows you to play any game type. What’s excellent about it is that you have a more comprehensive list of game types to choose between if you become bored with one style which includes new releases of slots and other games that are famous.
Further, try the gameplay of the most popular titles from industry-leading providers that includes excellent providers like Pragmatic Play, Games Global, NetEnt and Play’n GO.
Licensing and Safety
An important thing to remember is that just because the casino isn’t licenced in New Zealand doesn’t mean it should have no licence at all. You should always check whether the operator is licenced with authorities like Curacao and Malta Gaming Authority.
These licensors regulate the site to ensure its offerings are fair and follow regulations. Further, check what SSL encryption the operator uses and whether an independent testing agency certifies the games’ RNG. Security is just as essential as the licence, as you often provide personal information during the KYC procedure.
Promotions
The next thing we check is what promotions are available. While bonuses are popular among players, there are some with unreasonable terms which is why you must check the bonus terms and see whether it’s something you can complete.
Don’t get blinded by the offer that states a 150% bonus of up to $1,000; check how high the wagering requirements are. Also, look at how much time you have to complete the rollover and the minimum deposit to claim it.
Payment Methods
It’s vital to know what payment methods you have available at your disposal. Cards like Visa, Mastercard, Paysafecard and various others are popular, however, you should also look for e-wallets like PayPal, Neteller, Skrill, ecoPayz and MuchBetter.
Once you’re sure you have a decent selection of deposit and withdrawal methods available, examine the payment terms. What’s the minimum deposit and withdrawal, how fast do withdrawals payout and are fees attached? These are all questions you should find the answer to.
Customer Support
The last aspect we suggest you test is customer support. The ideal support is available 24/7 through multiple channels like live chat, email, contact form, and social media. However, many casinos stick to live chat and email. Double-check whether you can access the support anytime and how fast the agents are to respond.
Also, see whether they’re quick to answer questions and provide successful solutions to any queries or issues. Another element of customer support is the listed responsible gambling tools. Consider whether reality checks, personal limits, cool-off periods, and self-exclusion are available.
Find the Best NZ Online Casino for You
Since you know Kiwi players can legally play at offshore casinos, you can find the best one, however, always gamble responsibly and only wager money you can afford to lose. That’s why responsible gambling tools are essential at online casinos. Should you follow the above criteria and keep safe while gambling responsibly, then you’ll find that many excellent casinos are available to you in New Zealand.
