Increasing numbers of New Zealanders are turning to online platforms, according to a new study in the country.

New Zealand

New Zealand altered the rules on gaming in 2018 allowing digital forms of gambling. The change in regulations then allowed more significant numbers of people to enter the growing online industry as mobile take up continues.

Spending on digital forms of scratch cards in the country increased from NZ$21.6m in 2016 to $29.8m in 2019, according to official statistics in the country, TVNZ reported citing a study by the Problem Gambling Foundation.

Currently, there is a $50 a week spending limit on digital forms of scratch cards, a required by government regulation. Meanwhile, a campaign is underway in the country to boost consumer protection to push responsible gambling.

Accordingly, a review is currently underway on all online gambling, with Raj Krishnan of New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs saying it is progressing. “We are in the process of analysing the submissions we received and providing advice to our minister, that review should be heading towards cabinet mid-year,” Mr Krishnan said.