New Zealand moves to ban credit card gambling by 2026

New Zealand’s government has confirmed that licensed online casinos will be prohibited from accepting credit card deposits from 2026, marking a major regulatory step as the country moves to formalise its online gambling market. The measure is being drafted into the proposed Online Casino Bill, which is currently under parliamentary consideration.

The restriction was announced by Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden, who said preventing credit card-funded gambling is intended to reduce the risk of players accumulating unsustainable debt. According to the government, credit cards can make it easier for individuals to gamble beyond their financial limits, particularly in an online environment where access is constant.

Under the proposed framework, up to 15 online casino licences could be issued, allowing approved operators to legally offer and advertise services in New Zealand. Alongside payment restrictions, licensed operators would be required to contribute four percent of gross gambling revenue to charities and community organisations, strengthening social responsibility obligations.

Officials estimate that the sale of online casino licences could generate approximately NZ$44 million in government revenue. However, the credit card ban has attracted mixed reactions from industry stakeholders. Critics have questioned whether the restriction could deter potential licensees or drive players toward alternative payment methods and offshore platforms.

New Zealand’s approach closely mirrors reforms introduced in Australia in 2024, where credit cards and certain digital payment methods were banned for online gambling. Australian regulators cited similar concerns around gambling-related harm and ease of access to credit.

As debate on the Online Casino Bill continues into 2026, the proposed payment restrictions are emerging as one of the most significant policy safeguards within New Zealand’s evolving online gambling framework.