Entain is preparing to compete for multiple licenses in New Zealand’s forthcoming regulated online casino market and targets a 50% market share, as the country advances plans to legalize iGaming and establish a formal licensing regime.
The betting group has confirmed it intends to bid for three licenses when the application process opens, according to a report by Gambling News, with authorities expected to issue up to 15 licenses in total.
The licensing process is scheduled to begin in July 2026. The Department of Internal Affairs, which is overseeing the rollout, said the regulatory system is intended to create a safer environment for consumers while ensuring operators meet defined standards.
The agency noted that a substantial number of residents already access offshore gambling platforms, and regulation is expected to reduce associated risks. In addition to designing the licensing framework, authorities are building the necessary regulatory infrastructure and planning public awareness campaigns focused on gambling risks and the use of licensed operators.
Entain’s expansion plans come alongside strong financial performance across its global operations. The company reported total group net gaming revenue of $6.6 billion in 2025, an 8% increase, with online revenue projected to grow between 5% and 7% on a constant currency basis. Its New Zealand business recorded a 28% year-on-year increase, indicating sustained momentum in the market.
The company’s strategy is tied to its existing footprint in New Zealand through TAB, the country’s exclusive provider of retail and online sports and racing betting. Entain is seeking to integrate sports betting, racing, and casino products into a single offering.
Market data indicates that the underlying demand for online gambling in New Zealand remains stable. According to data from market intelligence platform Blask, user interest, measured through its Blask Index, remained within a narrow range between April 2025 and March 2026, with monthly figures fluctuating between 2.57 million in January 2026 and peaks of 2.9 million in October and December 2025.
Revenue estimates also showed limited variation, ranging from approximately $43.98 million to $46.01 million during the same period, with December 2025 recording the highest estimated monthly revenue.
The country’s economic and demographic conditions are also seen as supportive of digital gambling growth. New Zealand has a population of just over 5.1 million, with internet penetration reaching nearly 4.95 million users and a literacy rate exceeding 98%.
About 87% of the population lives in urban areas, supporting digital access and adoption. Gross domestic product reached $257.1 billion in 2024, with GDP per capita estimated at around $48,200, indicating relatively strong consumer spending capacity.
