Best Betting Sites in New Zealand 2023

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Kiwis love a good punt, and gambling is a massive part of our culture. We're all about taking risks and playing games, so top-notch online bookies are a sure bet to be a hit here. But if you're unsure where or how to place your bets, don't worry - we've got you covered. Check out this page and article for a list of the best bookies in New Zealand.

Our list of the best betting sites is constantly changing, just like the gambling scene in New Zealand. However, we're assessing every Bookie on an even playing field.

We're all about the punters, mate. We check out the word on the street, the bookies' rep, the dosh options, the lines, the odds, and all the other important stuff. So, look at our NZ best betting sites list, eh?

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Online Betting Regulation in New Zealand

Category Details Examples Relevant Legislation
Legal Age The legal age for online betting in New Zealand is 18 years old. Any person under the age of 18 is prohibited from gambling online. A person who is 17 years old cannot sign up for an online betting account. Gambling Act 2003
Licensed Operators The New Zealand government or a reputable overseas regulator must license all online betting operators. It is illegal for unlicensed operators to offer online betting services to New Zealand residents. TAB, Betway, Bet365 Gambling Act 2003
Responsible Gambling Online betting operators must have responsible gambling measures to protect their customers. These measures can include self-exclusion, deposit limits, and time limits. A betting operator must offer customers the option to set a daily deposit limit. Gambling Act 2003
Advertising Online betting operators cannot advertise their services to New Zealand residents unless licensed by the New Zealand government. Advertising must also comply with the Advertising Standards Authority Code of Ethics. An unlicensed betting operator cannot run a Facebook ad targeted at New Zealand residents. Gambling Act 2003, Advertising Standards Authority Code of Ethics
Taxation Winnings from online betting are not taxed in New Zealand. However, online betting operators based in New Zealand are subject to taxation on their profits. A person who wins $10,000 from an online betting site does not have to pay taxes. Income Tax Act 2007
Prohibited Activities It is illegal to engage in match-fixing or sports bribery in New Zealand. Online betting operators must report any suspicious betting activity to the authorities. A person who offers a rugby player money to lose a game deliberately commits a criminal offence. Crimes Act 1961, Gambling Act 2003

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As we've bloody well said, Kiwis love a good punt. The 2020 report shows that we Kiwis spent a whopping 11.6 billion NZD on sports Betting (603 bucks per head) and a staggering 25.8 billion on racing (1340 bucks per person). These numbers make us bloody legends in the world of Betting per capita.

It's no surprise that gambling and betting sites in NZ are regulated. But the rules can be pretty complicated. New Zealand is a federation, so each region has gambling and Betting laws. There are six state gambling commissions (North Island, South Island, Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin) and two big mainland commissions (Wellington and Northland). On top of that, there's a national betting regulation act that covers all the regions. It's called the Interactive Gambling Act, and it's been around since 2001.

Betting rules vary from state to state, bro. This means that some bookies might not be available in certain regions. But don't stress because betting sites in New Zealand are all good in every state of Aotearoa. This means every punter can get amongst the online bookies and have a good time.

One thing's for sure; the Kiwi betting scene is a whole different ball game. It's not like the rest of the world's gambling industry. That's why the top 10 sports in New Zealand are one of a kind. So, what do we Kiwi punters love to bet on? Check out the list below.

  • Racing is a bloody big deal for Kiwi punters. We go wild for horse racing, greyhounds, and trots. We love to have a punt on local races and significant events from around the globe. Over 65% of all bets are on racing, so the regulators have the best betting site. This means that sports Betting sites need separate licenses for sports and racing. It's fair to say that racing is the number one sport for betting in New Zealand.
  • From March to October, Kiwi punters go wild for AFL betting. Every Bookie in New Zealand offers a range of lines and top-notch odds to keep the footy fans happy. The playoffs are when things heat up, and the bets start pouring in.
  • Cricket, mate! Over 1.5 million Kiwis are registered cricketers, so it's no wonder the sport is a top pick for punters. Test matches with the Baggy Greens are a real crowd-pleaser, but there's plenty of action to be had with the Big Bash league - every Bookie offers events from it.
  • Rugby is a bloody big deal for Kiwi punters. The NRL and global rugby are the bee's knees regarding Betting. Bookies have all the usual suspects like Moneyline, over/under, handicaps, and even player stats.
  • Rugby's still king in NZ, but the NFL's starting to make some noise. Especially now that our own Kiwi players are in the mix. You can chuck down a cheeky 10k or more on a game, so the punters are keen.
  • Footy, or soccer as some call it, is a big deal for Kiwi punters and the best betting sites in NZ. The A-league and Socceroos' international matches are where it's at. The big European leagues and UCL don't get as much love. Bookies tend to stick to the usual markets.
  • eSports, bro! It's the niche that's growing faster than a Tui's wings. Aotearoa's been getting in on Esports, especially since the COVID-19 lockdown. The top Kiwi bookies usually have the most significant events in DOTA 2, CS: GO, LoL, and Starcraft covered, so you can get your fix of virtual battles and make some coin while you're at it.
  • Bro, MMA is massive in Aotearoa! We've had over ten epic UFC events in the 2010s, and legends like Volkanovski and Whittaker are killing it in the Octagon. So, it's no surprise that Kiwis are all about MMA, and the bookies also get in on the action. Check out the sports bet apps for sick promos and ads on UFC events to put some money down on.
  • Basketball is still a big deal in Aotearoa, with the NBL leading the way. But we also get hyped for the NBA and international games. Some of our ballers even throw down bets on the Euroleague, especially since a few Kiwis are in the mix.
  • Tennis, mate! It's a pretty decent sport among Kiwi punters, but it's not as big as in Europe. The action heats up during the New Zealand swing of tournaments in Jan-Feb, with the New Zealand Open being the main event that draws in the crowds.
  • Baseball, mate. It's another sport worth a mention. It's not quite up there with cricket, but we Kiwi gamblers still watch it. With a massive regular season, we can't ignore it.

In a nutshell, it's all about the races and other sports, mate. You might be wondering why racing bets are all the rage in Aotearoa. Well, it's a no-brainer - racing is a big part of our gambling culture. Plus, the races are over in a flash, so the payouts for the winners come in quick as a flash too.

Top Betting sites in New Zealand

SlotsMegaCasino.comCheck out the New Zealand betting sites. We've got the lowdown on every Bookie so that you can pick the ultimate site or app. Here's the lineup:

  • Sportsbet. The most Kiwi bookie you'll ever lay your eyes on. They've got a massive range of popular sports events from Aotearoa and all around the globe. You can pick from over 30 categories: Politics, Telly Shows, and Entertainment. Sportsbet's live betting section is massive, and its racing section is off the hook. They've got hundreds of different races every day. Sportsbet's got some sweet features like Same game multi, same race multi, and BYO BETS. Do you want to bet against your mate? Or put your money on the same outcome? Then use the "Bet with Mates" option. The sportsbook is also mint from a technical point of view, with a smooth website and user-friendly mobile app.
  • Bet365, the big-time betting brand, has operated in Aotearoa since 2002. Kiwi punters can't get enough of the sweet betting deals and slick look of Bet365. They've got a massive selection of sports and markets, plus heaps of top-notch streams. And if you're into totes, Bet365 has two that are theirs. If you're keen on parlays, you'll love the bet builder feature, where you can add up to 12 picks from a single AFL match.
  • Playup. A fresh face in the game (born in 2019). This Bookie shows much potential with its massive racing range and choice of fixed-odds markets. Their betting options aren't as flashy as Bet365, but the slick mobile app and top-notch fantasy sports section make up for it.
  • Bookie NZ, bro! This Bookie's got a lot going for it, aye. Kiwi punters reckon it's a choice because of its low margin on the most popular markets. Plus, Bookie's got some sweet betting features like exact game/race multiples, live comments, and cashout. They even hook you up with their payment card (Mastercard) to make payments quicker and easier.
  • Unibet is a worldwide bigwig with a solid track record of triumph. It all started in Denmark two decades ago and has thrived in local markets. Unibet made its way to Aotearoa in 2012 and ain't planning on packing up anytime soon. And why would they? Kiwi punters are all over Unibet's odds and live-betting section. You can catch a bunch of live streams and chuck some decent coins on popular markets. Unibet has over 30 categories, a massive range of needs for top events, and a pretty sweet blog.

Other top-notch bookies include Starsbet, Neds, Betfair, Ladbrokes, Bluebet, BetStar, and Pointsbet. You can peep the complete list of Kiwi online bookies on our site.

Mobile Betting in New Zealand

Kiwis love to have a punt on their mobiles (about 65% of all bets in NZ are made this way). It's just so much easier and quicker to get in on the action. Every Bookie in Aotearoa needs to have a sports bet app. Almost all legit companies (around 90%) have mobile betting software for iOS/Android and mobile versions.

Top-notch betting apps in Aotearoa are chocka with choice options and deadly features:

  • Get in on the action with live betting and math centres! Keep up with the game and place your bets in real time. It's the ultimate rush for any true-blue Kiwi gambler.
  • Get ready to hear all the latest banter and watch the action unfold in real time with live comments or streaming. It's the perfect way to stay in the loop and get your fix on Kiwi gambling slang.
  • You can now take advantage of the cashout option, mate. This means you can cash in your bet before the game's over, allowing you to lock in some winnings or cut your losses.
  • You can now set up notifications on our site so you never miss a beat. Keep up with the latest odds and scores, and get alerts when your favourite teams are playing. It's a choice, and it's all at your fingertips. So what are you waiting for? Get amongst it and set up your notifications today!
  • Easy as pie, mate! You can place your bet with just one click and be in the game. No mucking around, no fuss. It's a piece of piss!
  • Get ready to place your bets, Kiwis! Our best bookmakers slip as flexible as a jandal on a hot summer day. You can mix and match your wagers like an accurate punter, and we'll ensure you get the best odds. So, grab a cold one and let's get this show on the road!
  • Sweet as payment section, bro! It's a piece of piss to use.
  • Chur bro, wanna yarn with our customer support crew? Hit up our live chat, and we'll sort you out.
  • "Top picks" or "faves" are the go-to choices for Kiwi punters. These horses, teams, or players are expected to win and are often the subject of heavy Betting. Look for the odds on your top picks and place your bets wisely.
  • Check out the latest stats and results from your favourite sports and races. Get the latest odds and betting trends, and stay ahead. Whether you're into rugby, cricket, horse racing, or any other sport, we've got you covered. So don't be a mug; get amongst it and place your bets today!

Bro, the mobile app needs to be quick as a flash and easy to use. And if you're a keen punter on the ponies, you want to find the best horse racing app in Aotearoa. That's why heaps of apps have a separate section just for racing.

Choosing the best mobile sportsbook in Aotearoa ain't a piece of cake, mate. But don't worry; we've measured every Bookie's mobile app and made our top list. You can have a squiz at it yourself. And if you want more info, check out our betting app reviews.

Payment Methods in New Zealand Bookies

SlotsMegaCasino.comThe top Kiwi bookies always have heaps of ways to pay so that you can bet hassle-free. Each Bookie has a list of options, but all deal in NZ dollars. You can chuck cash in other currencies, but it'll ultimately change into NZD.

Here are the most popular ways to pay when you're having a punt in New Zealand:

  • If you're keen on the action at your favourite online casino, you must know about using your Eftpos card. This handy piece of plastic is your ticket to quickly making deposits and withdrawals. Link your card to your casino account, and you're suitable to go-no need to worry about carrying cash or dealing with complicated payment methods. With your trusty Eftpos card, you can hit the pokies or place your bets on the go.
  • Paypal is a popular payment method many Kiwi punters use in the online gambling scene. It's a safe and secure way to deposit and withdraw funds from your betting account. With Paypal, you can quickly transfer money to and from your bank account and easily transact with your favourite online bookmakers. So if you're looking for a hassle-free way to manage your online gambling funds, try Paypal today!
  • Poli (deposit only) - Hey, Kiwis, if you're keen to chuck some cash into your online gambling account, Poli is the way to go. It's a sweet deposit option that's quick and easy to use. Just ensure you've got enough moolah in your bank account before you give it a go.
  • Chuck some funds into your account with Bpay, but remember, it's only for deposits, not withdrawals. Give your bank a jingle and get those funds sorted.
  • If you're keen on punting at online casinos, you might want to check out Paysafecard. It's a sweet way to make deposits without giving out your deets. Just grab a card from your local dairy or petrol station, enter the code at the casino, and you're good to go-no worries about dodgy transactions or getting ripped off.
  • Skrill is a top-notch e-wallet perfect for Kiwi punters who love to gamble online. With Skrill, you can quickly deposit and withdraw funds from your favourite online casinos and sportsbooks. Plus, you'll enjoy lightning-fast transactions and top-notch security. So if you're looking for a reliable and convenient way to manage your online gambling funds, Skrill is the way to go.
  • Neteller is a good e-wallet option for Kiwi punters who love gambling online. It's a top-notch way to deposit and withdraw funds from your favourite online casinos and sportsbooks. With Neteller, you can quickly transfer your hard-earned cash to your betting account and place bets on your favourite sports teams or poker games. Plus, it's a safe and secure way to handle your money, so you can rest assured that your funds are in good hands. So, if you're keen on the action, sign up for Neteller today and start winning big!
  • "Bank Transfer" could be rewritten as "EFT" (Electronic Funds Transfer) or "Direct Credit". For example, when depositing at an online casino, you can use EFT or Direct Credit to transfer funds from your bank account to your casino account. This method is popular among Kiwi gamblers who prefer to use their bank accounts rather than credit cards or e-wallets. Just check with your bank for any fees or processing times before transferring.
  • If you're keen on gambling, we have some sweet news. Instead of cheques, we've got heaps of other ways for you to cash in and out. Give us a holla, and we'll hook you up with all the deets.
  • Get your hands on some sweet Bookie cash cards and vouchers, mate! These bad boys are the perfect way to boost your betting account and get in on the action in the best betting sites for New Zealand. Whether you're keen on the ponies or love a good game of footy, these cards and vouchers are the ultimate way to bet like a true Kiwi. So don't wait; grab your Bookie cash cards and vouchers today and start winning big!

Most Kiwi punters prefer using their credit cards as it's the most common payment method in everyday life. Another good option is using e-wallets like Skrill, Neteller, or Paypal. It's a speedy way to deposit and withdraw, but you'll have to pay some fees. Remember that not all bookies accept e-wallets, and most players prefer transferring their winnings to their bank account or card. Big brands like Bet365, Sportsbet, Neds, BetStar, and Ladbrokes have cash cards, probably the fastest way to withdraw your winnings. You can withdraw your cash from any local ATM or use a cash card like a standard credit card. However, this method has some downsides, such as fees and limits.

Starting August 2021, you won't be able to use your credit card to make deposits for your bets. It's now banned in NZ, so make sure to use other payment options available.

Bonuses at New Zealand Bookmakers

Bonus Type Details Examples
Welcome Bonus A bonus is offered to new customers upon signing up for an account with a bookmaker. Usually, the prize is a percentage of the first deposit made by the customer. 100% bonus up to NZD 200 upon first deposit.
Free Bet Bonus A bonus that allows customers to place a bet without using their own money. Usually, the free bet is offered as a reward for completing a specific action, such as setting a certain number of bets. NZD 10 free bet for every five bets placed.
Reload Bonus A bonus is offered to existing customers when they make a new deposit into their account. Usually, the prize is a percentage of the promise made by the customer. 50% bonus up to NZD 100 upon making a second deposit.
Cashback Bonus A bonus that offers customers a percentage of their losses through bonus funds. 10% cashback on losses up to NZD 100.
Loyalty Bonus A bonus is offered to customers who have been with a bookmaker for a certain period or have placed a certain number of bets. Usually, the prize is in the form of free bets or bonus funds. NZD 50 free bet for customers with over 50 chances in a month.

SlotsMegaCasino.comKeen on some sweet deals and freebies at Kiwi betting sites? Sorry to say, but we've got some bad news. As of March 2019, it's illegal for legit sportsbooks in Aotearoa to dish out any promos. The government put a kibosh on this to help curb the rise of problem gambling in our country.

Sorry, but you won't find any freebies or deposit bonuses here. However, check out the best bet sites' "Promotion" sections. Usually, it's empty or spruiks stuff like cashouts or same-race multies. The current ban on bonuses means bookies can't offer much in the way of promos. The only ones you might find are early payouts and boosted odds.

How to choose a sportsbook in New Zealand? 

Keen to have a punt in Aotearoa or on the hunt for the ultimate spot to play? Look no further, mate! Our top picks and insider knowledge will help you find the best bookies in New Zealand to suit your style.

  • Know your goals, mate. If you're keen on a bit of a flutter, you can't go wrong with the top dogs like Sportsbet or Neds. They're safe as houses and heaps of fun. But if you're a serious punter, you'll want to check out the bookies with the lowest margins and the most significant limits. That's where the real action is, bro.
  • Reputation and safety are critical, mate. Only go with bookies that have a solid rep and no dodgy history. Check out their license and who's running the show if it's a new site. But if it's a big name known worldwide, you're sweet. And don't forget to check out what other punters say in their reviews to weigh the good and bad bits.
  • You can't ignore the odds, even if you're a casual punter. Don't be a lazy bugger and lose out on extra cash. Check out the odds at the top bookies and select the best. You want to aim for payouts between 95-98% before and 93-96% during the game.
  • The more sports and markets, the bloody better. But check out how the Bookie is doing in the categories and needs that matter to you. Who gives a toss if they offer Sumo but have bugger-all options for AFL, tennis, or rugby?
  • The live betting section is a crucial part of any top-notch bookie. They need a solid platform that can handle all the action, with fast updates on the odds, match centres, live-streaming, and comments. It's all about having a stable and functional setup that Kiwi punters can rely on.
  • The platform should be a piece of piss for Kiwi punters, whether you're using the website or the app. It needs to be quick as a flash and packed with handy features. If you're uncomfortable, it could even bugger up your bet sites, especially if you're doing it live.
  • Get clued up on the payment options and pick a bookie that won't give you any hassles regarding transactions.
  • Backing and stickin' with you, mates. Every best new online bookie NZ has got you back with their customer support crew. So, having a Live Chat, blower, and email support is a must-have. Plus, it's a good sign if the site has a FAQ section. Please make sure the agents are friendly and skilled and can lend a hand when you need it.

We reckon it's a good idea to sign up with a few bookies and have a punt on all of them at once. That way, you can check out the best odds from a more comprehensive selection of markets.

How to Bet in New Zealand: Tutorial 

You've got the hang of top betting sites in NZ, and now it's time to place your first bet. No need to do anything flash to get started - follow these simple steps:

  • Pick a couple of bookies from the list and head to their sites.
  • Hit "Register" or "Join Up" to start the process.
  • Chuck in your deets, mate! Fill out the rego form with your name, email, blower, addy, and all that jazz.
  • Sweet as click the link in the email or punch in the SMS code to lock in your registration.
  • Chuck some cash into your account using one of our payment options.
  • Head to the live or pre-match section, pick out one of the choice events and chuck your bets on the table.
  • If you're keen, cash out your winnings.

Sweet as, mate! Betting in New Zealand is all suitable from 18. But, before you can cash out, you must verify your identity with the Bookie. They'll need to see some personal docs; sometimes, they might even want to video chat with you to ensure it's you.

Frequently asked Questions

💻 What are some of the top online casinos for betting in New Zealand?
Some of the best online casinos for betting in New Zealand include SkyCity Online Casino, JackpotCity, Spin Casino, and Royal Vegas. These sites offer a wide range of games, secure payment options, and attractive bonuses and promotions.
⚽️ Which sports betting sites are popular in New Zealand?
Popular sports betting sites in New Zealand include TAB, Betway, Bet365, and William Hill. These sites offer competitive odds, live streaming of matches, and a variety of sports to bet on.
📱 Can you recommend some mobile phone betting sites in New Zealand?
Sure, some of the best mobile phone betting sites in New Zealand include Betway, LeoVegas, 888sport, and Unibet. These sites offer mobile apps for a seamless betting experience, fast payment options, and a variety of betting options.
🏇 What are some of the best betting sites for horse racing in New Zealand?
Some of the best betting sites for horse racing in New Zealand include TAB, Bet365, Betway, and William Hill. These sites offer a variety of horse racing events, live streaming of races, and competitive odds.
❓ What should I look for in a good online betting site?
When choosing a good online betting site, it is important to consider factors such as security and safety measures, payment options, customer support, a variety of betting options, and attractive bonuses and promotions.
⚖️ Is online betting legal in New Zealand?
Yes, online betting is legal in New Zealand as long as the site is based overseas and not operating from within the country. However, it is important to choose reputable and licensed betting sites to ensure safety and security.
🏆 Which betting sites offer live betting in New Zealand?
Some of the best betting sites for live betting in New Zealand include Betway, Bet365, Unibet, and LeoVegas. These sites offer a variety of live betting options, competitive odds, and fast payment options.

Author: Vadim Rotar

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