Entain eyes multi-license bid, high market share as New Zealand prepares to open regulated gaming market
Summary
Entain intends to apply for three online casino licences when New Zealand opens its regulated iGaming market, targeting around a 50% market share. The Department of Internal Affairs will start the licensing process in July 2026 and may issue up to 15 licences. The move follows strong financial results for Entain globally and in New Zealand, and comes as authorities aim to shift players from offshore platforms to licensed operators while building regulatory infrastructure and public-awareness campaigns.
Key Points
- Entain plans to bid for three online casino licences in New Zealand’s upcoming licensing round; up to 15 licences expected to be issued.
- Licensing process scheduled to begin in July 2026 under the Department of Internal Affairs, which is also developing regulatory systems and awareness campaigns.
- Entain reported group net gaming revenue of $6.6bn in 2025 (up 8%) and saw a 28% year‑on‑year rise in its New Zealand business.
- The operator aims to integrate TAB sports and racing with casino products into a single offering for the local market.
- Market intelligence (Blask) shows stable user interest and relatively steady monthly revenue estimates across Apr 2025–Mar 2026.
- New Zealand’s demographics and high internet penetration are viewed as supportive of digital gambling growth.
Content Summary
Entain is positioning itself aggressively for New Zealand’s shift from largely offshore access to a formal, regulated online casino market. The company intends to submit applications for three licences, seeking to combine its existing TAB business with casino and sportsbook offerings. The Department of Internal Affairs expects to start licensing in July 2026 and is building the necessary oversight and public-information workstreams to reduce risks from unregulated offshore play.
Financial context underlines Entain’s confidence: group net gaming revenue grew in 2025 and the firm’s New Zealand arm posted strong year‑on‑year growth. Market-data from Blask points to a steady base of users and limited monthly revenue variation, while New Zealand’s high internet penetration and urbanisation support digital growth prospects.
Context and Relevance
This is a notable development for operators, regulators and suppliers in the igaming sector. New Zealand’s move to licence online casino operators will reshape where local players place bets, affect marketing and compliance requirements, and create new opportunities for incumbents like Entain to consolidate market share. Regulators’ emphasis on consumer safety and public awareness signals stricter oversight compared with offshore environments, so compliance and localisation will be key for entrants.
Why should I read this
Short version: Entain’s gunning for a big slice of a newly legal market — if you work in igaming, payments, compliance or are tracking market openings, this matters. It’s where money, regulation and user behaviour meet, and the July 2026 licensing round is the moment players will jostle for position. We’ve boiled it down so you don’t have to wade through the filings.