Entain, Stake, Betway Advance in New Zealand iGaming Licence Race 2026

Major Operators Clear First Hurdle in New Zealand Market

Three of the world's largest online gaming operators have advanced in New Zealand's closely watched iGaming licensing process, signalling intensifying competition to enter one of the Asia-Pacific's most regulated and high-value markets.

Entain, Stake, and Betway have all been granted permission to proceed to the next phase of bidding alongside SkyCity, the country's longstanding land-based gaming incumbent. The advancement represents a significant filtering process, with the regulators clearly identifying operators capable of meeting stringent compliance and operational standards.

New Zealand's Regulated Market Opportunity

New Zealand has emerged as a priority market for global operators seeking exposure to English-speaking, affluent player bases within a transparent regulatory framework. Unlike some jurisdictions that have rushed to online gambling regulation, New Zealand has taken a measured approach, ensuring high standards for player protection, responsible gambling measures, and tax compliance.

The competition among tier-one operators like Entain—parent company of brands including BET365—and crypto-native platforms like Stake demonstrates the market's attractiveness. SkyCity's inclusion as a land-based incumbent seeking online licensing is typical of global regulatory trends that favour existing gaming operators with proven track records.

What to Watch

The next phases of the bidding process will likely focus on operators' detailed compliance frameworks, player protection commitments, and financial viability assessments. Success in New Zealand could serve as a blueprint for other Asia-Pacific regulators considering controlled iGaming liberalisation. The market remains fluid, and regulatory outcomes here will be watched closely by operators evaluating expansion strategies across the region.

Further announcement timelines have not yet been confirmed by New Zealand authorities.