Gambling habits in New Zealand are shaped by a combination of cultural, economic, and regulatory factors. The country has a robust gambling industry, with approximately 80% of New Zealanders participating in some form of gambling just like their Australian counterparts. This includes traditional activities like lotteries and sports betting, but the most notable segment is electronic gaming machines, commonly known as pokies. According to recent data, there are nearly 17,799 poker machines in New Zealand, with 82% of them located in pubs and clubs, making these machines highly accessible to the public.
New Zealand’s gambling expenditure has experienced significant growth, with New Zealanders spending around AUD 2.625 billion on various forms of gambling in 2021. A large portion of this spending is on pokies, with players losing over AUD 1 billion on these machines in recent years. The appeal of pokies is partly due to their design, which often creates a sense of false hope through near wins and enticing bonus features, encouraging continued play.
Despite the popularity of gambling, concerns about responsible gaming and associated risks are growing. Reports indicate that approximately 76,000 New Zealanders aged 15 and older are at moderate to high risk of harm from gambling activities. This risk is especially high among those who frequently play pokies, with studies showing that nearly half of all pokie players may experience some form of gambling-related harm.
The gambling regulatory framework in New Zealand is primarily managed by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA), which oversees licensing and compliance to reduce potential harms. However, a significant portion of online gambling remains unregulated, resulting in an estimated annual loss of AUD 140 million.
As New Zealand continues to navigate its gambling landscape, balancing enjoyment with risk remains a key challenge for both players and regulators.
Popular Forms of Gambling in New Zealand
Gambling is a popular pastime in New Zealand, with several forms of gambling attracting significant participation from the public. The most popular forms of gambling says WinPokieSlots include:
Pokies (Electronic Gaming Machines)
Pokies are the most widespread form of gambling in New Zealand. Nearly 17,800 machines are located primarily in pubs and clubs, making them easily accessible. Pokies account for a large portion of the country’s gambling expenditure, with Kiwis losing over AUD 1 billion annually on these machines. Known for their addictive features such as near wins and free spins, approximately 49% of pokies players may experience gambling-related harm, highlighting the impact on player behavior.
Lotteries
Lotteries, including popular games such as Lotto, Powerball, and Instant Kiwi scratch cards, are also widely played. Around 50% of New Zealanders purchase at least one lottery ticket each year. The simplicity of the games and the potential for large payouts make lotteries an attractive option for many players.
Sports Betting
Sports betting, including racing events, is a significant form of gambling in New Zealand. Around 10% of New Zealanders participate in sports betting, typically through the TAB (Totalisator Agency Board), which offers betting options on both local and international sports events.
Casino Games
While casinos make up a smaller portion of New Zealand’s gambling market compared to pokies and lotteries, they offer a range of games, including blackjack, roulette, and poker. These games appeal to players seeking a more interactive gambling experience compared to electronic gaming machines.
Instant Games and Scratch Cards
Instant win games and scratch cards are popular for quick entertainment and are widely available at retail outlets throughout the country. These games appeal to players who prefer immediate results and do not wish to engage in extended gameplay.
Overall, New Zealand’s gambling landscape is diverse, with pokies leading in popularity, followed by lotteries and sports betting. However, the prevalence of gambling also raises concerns about responsible gaming and the potential for harm, prompting ongoing discussions about regulation and support for individuals affected by gambling-related issues.