New Zealand is entering a new chapter in its online poker history. Currently, Kiwi players enjoy unrestricted access to the world’s leading poker platforms through offshore operators, with all major sites accepting players from New Zealand.
However, significant changes are on the horizon, as the country moves toward a regulated online gambling market set to launch in early 2026.
This transition will bring both opportunities and challenges for New Zealand’s poker players. The new regulatory framework will limit the number of licensed operators to 15, reducing the number of available poker rooms but introducing stronger consumer protections and local oversight.
The government has confirmed that online casino gambling will be included in the new framework, though the exact status of peer-to-peer poker remains to be clarified in the upcoming legislation.
For now, New Zealand poker players can enjoy a wide variety of options, from the largest global operators to smaller, specialized poker rooms. All major sites accept New Zealand dollars and offer various convenient payment methods for Kiwi players, making it easy to get started with online poker today.
This guide covers everything you need to know about playing online poker in New Zealand, from the best current options to what to expect from the upcoming regulated market, along with practical advice on getting started and staying safe while playing online.
What’s the Best Poker Site in New Zealand?
For New Zealand players in 2024, PokerStars stands out as the best overall choice. It offers the widest variety of games and tournaments, excellent software for both desktop and mobile play, and reliable payment processing for Kiwi players. The site provides various stake levels to suit all bankrolls, hosts regular tournament series with substantial guarantees, and offers a competitive VIP program.
Additionally, it seems likely PokerStars will obtain a license under the new regulatory framework, suggesting long-term stability for New Zealand players.
Best Poker Sites in New Zealand
In today’s New Zealand online poker market, players have access to all major global operators. These sites operate legally under offshore licenses and accept New Zealand players without restrictions. Here’s a detailed look at the top options.
PokerStars New Zealand
PokerStars remains the most popular choice among Kiwi players, offering a comprehensive poker experience with features that cater to both casual players and serious grinders. The site provides extensive tournament schedules, including special Sunday majors with large guarantees, and cash games running around the clock at all stake levels.
The platform stands out for its excellent software stability and user-friendly interface, available on both desktop and mobile devices. New Zealand players can deposit and withdraw using various local payment methods, and customer support is available 24/7.
GGPoker New Zealand
GGPoker has rapidly grown to become one of the largest poker networks globally, and its offering for New Zealand players is particularly strong. The site is known for innovative features like SnapCam tables and All-In Insurance, plus a robust tournament schedule that includes some of the largest guaranteed prize pools in online poker.
The platform’s mobile-first approach has proven popular with Kiwi players, and its generous rewards program offers some of the highest rakeback rates in the industry. GGPoker also provides excellent customer support and multiple payment options suitable for New Zealand players.
WPT Global New Zealand
WPT Global offers a fresh take on online poker with its modern platform and connection to the prestigious World Poker Tour brand. New Zealand players particularly appreciate the site’s user-friendly mobile app and the opportunity to qualify for live WPT events through online satellites.
The platform is known for having softer competition compared to other major sites, making it an excellent choice for recreational players and those building their bankrolls. WPT Global also offers generous welcome bonuses and regular promotions specifically tailored for the New Zealand market.
Unibet Poker New Zealand
Unibet Poker provides a unique experience focused on recreational players, with a colorful, engaging interface and numerous player-friendly features. The site’s standalone software means you won’t find professional grinders using tracking software, creating a more enjoyable environment for casual players.
While the traffic is lower than the major networks, Unibet offers reliable game availability at most stakes and competitive promotions for New Zealand players. The site’s commitment to recreational players makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a more relaxed poker environment.
Betsson Poker New Zealand
Operating on the iPoker network, Betsson provides New Zealand players access to a well-established poker platform with good traffic levels and various game types. The site offers regular tournaments with reasonable guarantees and cash games at multiple stake levels.
Betsson stands out for its excellent customer service and reliable payment processing for New Zealand players. The platform also offers various promotions and a loyalty program that provides good value for regular players.
Upcoming Changes to New Zealand Online Poker
The New Zealand government is introducing a comprehensive new regulatory framework for online gambling, set to launch in early 2026. This represents the most significant change to online gambling regulation in the country’s history, bringing offshore online casino gambling under a new regulatory system that emphasizes consumer protection and harm minimization.
The Internal Affairs Minister, Brooke van Velden, has emphasized that the primary goal is not to increase online gambling but to create a safer, more compliant regulated market. The new system will provide better consumer protections while limiting opportunities for crime and dishonesty in the online gambling space.
Currently, New Zealand allows offshore operators to offer their services with minimal oversight, requiring only payment of Goods and Services Tax (GST) and an Offshore Gambling Duty. The new framework will bring this to an end, introducing a structured licensing system with strict requirements and oversight.
Key Implementation Timeline
The government has established a clear timeline for implementing the new regulatory framework:
- Late 2024: Publication of the draft Online Gambling Bill
- April 2025: Expected adoption of the Online Gambling Bill
- Late 2025: Establishment of the regulatory body
- February 2026: Begin accepting and processing license applications
- April 2026: Full launch of the regulated market with licensed operators
- Post-April 2026: Ban on unlicensed operators takes effect, with fines up to $5 million for violations
Licensing Framework Details
The new regulatory system will issue a maximum of 15 licenses to online gambling operators, significantly reducing the market from its current state of approximately 40-50 operators. These licenses will be valid for an initial three-year period with one opportunity for renewal, and they cannot be transferred between operators to ensure stable market conditions and maintain direct oversight.
The licensing process follows a two-stage approach, beginning with a comprehensive entry assessment that evaluates operators’ suitability for the New Zealand market. This assessment examines factors including financial solvency, ownership transparency, and track record of compliance in other jurisdictions, with particular emphasis on harm minimization standards.
Successful applicants must then navigate a bidding stage and prepare for ongoing costs including the standard 15% GST, a 12% online casino duty, and a problem gambling levy estimated at 1.3% of revenue. Notably, operators don’t need to maintain a physical presence in New Zealand, opening the market to experienced international operators with proven digital infrastructure.
Advertising and Marketing Restrictions
The new framework implements a balanced approach to advertising and marketing controls, allowing licensed operators to promote their services while maintaining strong consumer protections. All operators must submit their advertising strategies to the regulatory body for approval before implementation, ensuring alignment with consumer protection goals from the outset.
The regulations place particular emphasis on protecting young people, with an absolute prohibition on advertising that might appeal to children and a complete ban on sponsorship by online casinos. This comprehensive approach aims to reduce the normalization of gambling in everyday life and sport while maintaining necessary commercial communications.
Operators must incorporate responsible gambling messaging into their marketing materials and maintain detailed records of their promotional activities. The regulatory body will provide specific guidelines about the prominence and content of these messages, ensuring consistency across all licensed operators while helping regulators assess the effectiveness of advertising restrictions.
Market Structure Impact
The transition to a regulated market will bring significant changes to New Zealand’s online poker ecosystem:
- Reduction from dozens of current operators to just 15, and possibly only 3 or 4 of which will offer online poker.
- Focus on established brands with experience in regulated markets
- Potential loss of some popular current operators.
- Limited competition and increased costs could affect promotional offerings and innovation.
International Player Pools
The current statements from the Government have not addressed online poker at all. It is likely to be included in a definition of online casino, although more will only be known later in 2024 or into 2025, when the first drafts of the bill are published.
Due to this ambiguity, we know nothing about international player pools. Hopefully, regulators will see sense and will permit international player pooling.
If it does not, then it will likely be the death-knell for legal online poker: A country of just 4 million wouldn’t be enough to sustain a segregated online poker market. So assumptions on this page are that shared liquidity internationally will be possible.
Expected Future NZ Online Poker Operators
The new regulatory framework’s limitation to 15 licenses will significantly reshape New Zealand’s online poker landscape. While many operators have expressed interest in obtaining licenses, the reality is that the poker market will likely consolidate to just three or four major providers. Let’s examine the operators most likely to secure licenses and continue offering poker in New Zealand.
PokerStars New Zealand 2026
PokerStars appears well-positioned to secure one of the limited licenses in the regulated market. As one of the current market leaders and largest GST contributors in New Zealand, they have already demonstrated their commitment to the market. Government reports indicate that Flutter, PokerStars’ parent company, is among the top 15 operators currently paying GST in New Zealand.
PokerStars brings substantial experience in regulated markets worldwide and has shown they can adapt their offering to meet strict regulatory requirements while maintaining a competitive product. Their established presence and brand recognition in New Zealand make them a likely candidate for early licensing approval.
TAB NZ and Partypoker Partnership
TAB NZ, the state-sanctioned monopoly for sports betting, has explicitly expressed interest in obtaining a license for online casino gaming. Their existing partnership with Entain, the parent company of partypoker, puts them in a strong position to offer online poker in the regulated market.
This partnership is particularly significant because TAB NZ’s status as the national betting operator could provide advantages in the licensing process. The combination of TAB NZ’s local market understanding and partypoker’s global poker expertise could create a compelling offering for New Zealand players.
888poker New Zealand
888poker has been actively engaged in the consultation process for the new regulatory framework. Their experience in other regulated markets, particularly in similar sized jurisdictions, makes them a strong candidate for licensing. The operator has demonstrated its ability to work within strict regulatory frameworks while maintaining a competitive poker offering.
iPoker Network Operators
The iPoker network may maintain a presence in the regulated market through one or two skins. Bet365, which operates an online poker room on the iPoker network, has shown interest in the licensing process.
Notable Potential Market Exits
The limited licensing framework may force several current operators to exit the New Zealand market:
- GGPoker, despite its current strong presence, may not continue operating in the regulated market. However, it has shown an interest in almost all European regulated markets, so it may bid for a license.
- WPT Global, which currently offers services to New Zealand players, may also exit the market under the new framework. It does not currently operate in any locally regulated markets.
- Smaller poker operators, like Unibet, will likely be unable to justify the costs and requirements of obtaining a license in a restricted market
FAQ
Is online poker legal in New Zealand?
Yes, online poker is currently legal in New Zealand. Players can freely access international poker sites, and operators can legally offer their services to New Zealand residents. Starting in 2026, a new regulatory framework will be implemented, requiring operators to obtain local licenses.
How old do you need to be to play online poker in New Zealand?
The legal gambling age in New Zealand is 20 years old. All reputable online poker sites require age verification before allowing real money play.
Can I play online poker on my mobile in New Zealand?
Yes, all major poker sites offer mobile apps or browser-based play for New Zealand players. These apps are available for both iOS and Android devices and provide access to most features available on desktop.
What payment methods are available for New Zealand players?
New Zealand players can use various payment methods, including credit cards, e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill, bank transfers, and cryptocurrency on some sites. Most operators accept New Zealand dollars, avoiding currency conversion fees.
Are online poker winnings taxed in New Zealand?
Generally, online poker winnings are not taxed in New Zealand unless you’re considered a professional player. If poker is your primary source of income, you should consult with a tax professional about your obligations.
What changes are coming to online poker in New Zealand?
A new regulatory framework will be implemented in early 2026, limiting the number of licensed operators to 15. This will bring enhanced consumer protections but may reduce the number of available poker sites.
How do I choose a safe online poker site in New Zealand?
When selecting an online poker site in New Zealand, look for operators licensed by respected international authorities such as the Malta Gaming Authority or UK Gambling Commission. Choose sites with a long-standing reputation, transparent terms and conditions, and clear responsible gambling policies. Major operators like PokerStars and GGPoker have proven track records of reliable payment processing and fair gameplay.
What happens to my account when the new regulations start in 2026?
When the new regulatory framework takes effect in 2026, unlicensed operators will need to cease operations in New Zealand. If your current poker site obtains a license, your account will likely transition to the regulated platform. However, if your preferred site doesn’t receive a license, you’ll need to withdraw your funds and switch to a licensed operator. It’s recommended to keep track of regulatory announcements from your poker site as 2026 approaches.
Will I be able to play against international players after regulation?
The new regulatory framework hasn’t yet specified rules about international player pools. This decision will significantly impact the poker ecosystem in New Zealand. If international player pools are allowed, you’ll continue enjoying large tournament fields and active cash games. If not, you’ll be limited to playing against other New Zealand players, which could reduce game availability and tournament prize pools.
What types of poker games are available on New Zealand sites?
New Zealand poker sites offer a full range of poker variants. Texas Hold’em is the most popular, available in cash game, tournament, and sit-and-go formats. Many sites also offer Pot Limit Omaha, Short Deck Hold’em, and various mixed games. Tournament formats include multi-table tournaments, progressive knockouts, and high-speed tournaments. Stakes range from micro-limits to high-stakes games.
How do deposits and withdrawals work on New Zealand poker sites?
Most poker sites accept deposits through credit cards, e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill, bank transfers, and some cryptocurrencies. Deposits are typically instant and free of charge. Withdrawals usually take 1-5 business days depending on the method chosen. Many sites process payments in New Zealand dollars, avoiding currency conversion fees. Always verify the site’s payment terms and processing times before depositing.
What kind of welcome bonuses can I expect from New Zealand poker sites?
New Zealand poker sites typically offer welcome bonuses matching your first deposit up to a certain amount, often 100% up to $500-$1000 NZD. These bonuses are usually released in increments as you play real money games. Sites also offer additional incentives like free tournament tickets or special freeroll access. Remember to read the terms and conditions, particularly the playthrough requirements and time limits.
Can I use tracking software and heads-up displays (HUDs) on New Zealand sites?
Currently, most major poker sites allow tracking software and HUDs, though some restrict their use. Under the new regulatory framework, rules regarding third-party software may change. Some sites, like GGPoker and Unibet, already prohibit HUDs to protect recreational players. Check each site’s terms of service for specific policies on tracking software.
What responsible gambling tools are available?
New Zealand poker sites offer various responsible gambling tools, including deposit limits, loss limits, and self-exclusion options. Players can set daily, weekly, or monthly limits on deposits and playing time. Sites also provide links to problem gambling resources and self-assessment tools. Under the new regulations in 2026, these protections will become more robust and standardized across all licensed operators.
How do I report issues or disputes with a poker site?
Currently, players can report issues through each site’s customer support system. Some sites also use independent mediators for dispute resolution. After regulation in 2026, licensed operators must maintain approved complaint management systems, and players will have access to the regulatory body for escalating unresolved disputes. Keep records of all transactions and correspondence when dealing with any issues.
What happens if I win a large amount on a New Zealand poker site?
Large wins on poker sites are processed according to each site’s withdrawal policies. Some sites may require additional verification for substantial withdrawals. While poker winnings aren’t typically taxed in New Zealand, keeping records of significant wins is recommended. After regulation, licensed sites will have standardized procedures for processing large withdrawals, including required anti-money laundering checks.