New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) has intensified its crackdown on illegal gambling promotions by imposing substantial fines on social media influencers and an offshore casino operator. A total of NZ$125,000 in penalties were announced as a consequence of multiple violations of the Gambling Act.
In recent months, four social media influencers have come under scrutiny for their repeated promotion of offshore gambling websites to their followers. These individuals faced fines amounting to NZ$65,000 in total, with individual penalties ranging from NZ$15,000 to NZ$30,000 based on how frequently they promoted these sites. This situation highlights the increasing focus of the regulator on influential personalities on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
The DIA has observed a surge in complaints related to gambling advertising on social media, noting that such complaints have more than doubled over the past two years. Already, 75 cases have been logged in 2025 alone. Consequently, more than 40 influencers are now being closely monitored, marking them as part of an expanding gambling “watchlist.”
Authorities have issued stern warnings to repeat offenders, indicating that financial penalties are not the only repercussions they could face. Social media accounts involved in repeated violations risk suspension or permanent removal, which would effectively sever their connection with their audience and impact their online presence significantly.
In addition to targeting individuals, the DIA has levied a significant fine on Spinbet, an online casino based in Curacao. Spinbet was fined NZ$60,000 for its involvement in 12 distinct breaches of the Act. This case serves as a clear reminder that foreign gambling entities are prohibited from advertising or marketing their services to New Zealand residents through any channels, including digital platforms and social media campaigns.
Current legislation stipulates an infringement fee of NZ$5,000 per violation, though courts have the authority to impose much larger penalties. The DIA has signaled that persistent violators will face increasingly severe consequences should they continue to disregard the laws in place.
These enforcement actions are occurring at a pivotal time, as New Zealand is gearing up for significant changes in its gambling industry. Beginning in 2026, a new licensing framework will be introduced, allowing up to 15 approved online casinos to operate within the market. The government anticipates that these regulated operations could generate up to NZ$200 million annually.
While the new framework will permit foreign companies to apply for licenses, those operating without a license will be subject to fines as high as NZ$5 million under the forthcoming regulations. Community health advocates, especially those representing Māori populations, have called for more stringent measures to ensure that foreign operators cannot exploit vulnerable audiences and are kept out of the licensed market.
The DIA’s recent enforcement measures underscore the government’s commitment to eliminating illegal gambling advertising. This serves as a stark warning to both influencers and casino operators: the promotion of unlicensed gambling activities in New Zealand carries severe financial and reputational risks.
The focus on influencers reflects a broader trend, as regulators worldwide recognize the power and reach these individuals possess through their vast online followings. As one unofficial sentiment suggests, the message is clear—using one’s platform to promote illegal activities will not be tolerated, and consequences will be enforced.
Critics of the DIA’s approach argue that the focus on influencers may overlook larger systemic issues within the gambling industry itself. They suggest that while targeting influencers is a step in the right direction, it is crucial to also address the root causes of why unlicensed gambling sites continue to thrive.
Meanwhile, proponents of the stricter measures champion the actions as necessary for safeguarding public welfare and ensuring that the gambling market is regulated and fair. They argue that protecting consumers from potentially harmful and unregulated gambling practices is a priority that cannot be ignored.
As New Zealand moves towards implementing its new licensing regime in 2026, the nation stands at a crossroads in its approach to managing online gambling. The upcoming reforms are expected to reshape the landscape, providing more controlled and safer gambling opportunities while significantly reducing the presence of illegal operators.
The DIA’s ongoing initiatives and the anticipated market changes illustrate a strong commitment to regulatory reform, aiming to create a more transparent and accountable gambling environment in New Zealand. Whether these efforts will yield the desired outcomes remains to be seen, but the groundwork laid by recent enforcements sets a clear expectation for compliance and responsible marketing within the industry.
Erik Agary is a seasoned writer at True Games Reviews, specializing in gaming, casino games, and interactive entertainment. With a passion for all things digital, Erik dives deep into the latest trends and developments in the gaming world, offering insightful reviews and detailed analysis. His expertise spans across multiple gaming platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage that resonates with both novice and experienced gamers alike.
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