When a popular entertainment movement builds momentum, it is often difficult to contain it. We have seen phenomena like Pokémon explode and grow into a global brand that is still continuing to provide fans with games, cards, and television series. Online television streaming itself revolutionised the way we consume television shows, series, and movies.
Even social media falls into the category of entertainment with platforms such as TikTok providing fun-filled content to millions around the world. In New Zealand, new avenues of entertainment are going to continuously emerge in one of the most lucrative industries, but with quicker digital advances made in the current era, there is a particular option that is beginning to make waves in New Zealand and markets around the world.
Online Casino Craze
The online casino movement has already spread to many countries around the world. Some markets are more experienced and have framework and legislation set up to govern this phenomenon. However, the growth in a country like New Zealand is still in its infancy. There is already a growing interest within the country, and the revenue in online gambling in New Zealand is forecasted to reach US$1.25 billion this year.
As with other markets where online casino has emerged as a genuine entertainment option, there tends to be one casino game that occupies most player’s attention.
Choosing places online like LuckyKoala online pokies, these games further dominate the user’s game preference, with 1000’s of different pokies games available on most online casinos. However, the pokies are well complemented by blackjack, roulette, poker, baccarat, and craps selections that dwarf the offerings in land-based casinos.
The numbers do not lie
It is reported that approximately 300 million players will be engaging in online casino activity by 2029. To put that into perspective, that is 60 times the population of New Zealand. The data collated in many countries, especially relating to engagement and annual revenue display exponential growth, with the United Kingdom ranking as the most lucrative market in the world. The market currently turns over a staggering US$12.48 billion in revenue, followed by the United States and Brazil.
Bright future for online casino in NZ
Despite the fact online casinos are not officially legal in New Zealand, Kiwis can access foreign operators to get their casino fix. However, like with many other countries where online gambling is a grey area, regulators in New Zealand are making movements towards creating a legal framework for online casino providers within New Zealand to operate in. The NZ government has announced plans to introduce a licensing system that will help the industry flourish under secure and fair guidelines from early 2026.
Opening up the industry and awarding licences to those looking to be part of the movement signifies a big step by the NZ government and is ultimately a recognition of the data produced by other countries around the online activity. It is one that is continuing to captivate many around the world as the digital evolution takes shape. The pokies continue to lead the charge, but with more technological advancements around the corner, the future also looks bright for online casinos in New Zealand.