Gaming
Why the New Zealand Gambling Laws are Outdated
Nowadays, online gambling is more popular than ever before. However, New Zealand gambling laws are still severely outdated. The Gambling Act of 2003 is still in place and has remained unchanged for a good 20 years. This law states that one must be 18 years old to buy lottery tickets and participate in sports betting and 20 years old to enter a land-based casino in New Zealand.
The bill also prevents residents of New Zealand from gambling online, except for the online state lottery and Totalizer Agency BoFard or TAB. The major flaw, however, is that Kiwi players are free to sign up, deposit, and place real money bets at online casinos, sportsbooks, and online poker rooms hosted abroad.
History of Gambling in New Zealand
Betting, which consists of playing games of chance along with placing bets on racing and sports, has a long and incredibly diverse tradition in the country of New Zealand. With the very first gambling rules dating all the way back to the first half of the 20th century, Kiwis have been dealing with a highly regulated industry long before other countries.
In the 1830s, gambling was virtually banned in New Zealand territory. However, at the turn of the century, New Zealanders witnessed a different regulation. While the Gambling Act of 1908 was still restrictive, it did allow betting on the most popular sporting events, such as horse racing.
Over the course of the 20th century, the country saw two extremes regarding the regulation of gambling practices. Before the end of the first half of the century, the rules for sports betting and horse racing had tightened to the point that only a few specific betting options, such as betting on track horse races, were allowed. However, in 1961, the government’s rules were revised, and this saw the legalization of slots, lotteries, and land-based casino establishments approved by the late 1990s.
Legal Online Gambling in New Zealand
Nowadays, as previously mentioned, Kiwi players have only two options to gamble online legally – through the New Zealand Lottery Commission and TAB. All other local gambling sites are illegal to use, and even if an online casino is hosted in New Zealand, it cannot offer casino games like slots, table games, or poker. Luckily, many offshore casinos cater to Kiwi players, and nothing holds players back from playing at these sites. So a casino may be called online casino New Zealand but they are regulated by Malta and hosted on a Maltese webserver.
A similar state-controlled gambling scene exists in other countries, and the reason for this is actually relatively easy. Having just two companies having a monopoly on gambling offerings makes things easy for the New Zealand government, and by heavily taxing these two companies, they give back to the community, partially restoring the potential harm they cause by offering games of chance.
Games of Chance Classifications in New Zealand
With current legislation in place, there are four different classes of gambling in New Zealand: casino gambling pokies and other table games, lotteries and sweepstakes, Class II and III gaming (games of chance run by charity organisations), and Class IV Gambling (private gambling like house poker games).
New Zealand Gambling Laws Affecting Casinos Rather Than Players
One thing to keep in mind regarding New Zealand gambling law is that it focuses mainly on casinos rather than players. Although formally speaking, players can be fined up to NZD$20,000 or imprisoned for up to two years, it is primarily the online casinos and sportsbooks that get fined when advertising gambling or operating without a license. Gambling winnings aren’t considered taxable income either, so there is little players could do ‘’wrong’’ as opposed to the casinos offering the games. This is turned around in a country like South Africa, if you gamble online there you can get a fine. In China you can even go to prison for it!
SkyCity Casino Operating From Malta
SkyCity is one of the most prominent gambling and entertainment companies in New Zealand. It manages five land-based casinos across the country, serving thousands of players and punters daily, generating nearly a billion dollars in turnover. However, as prominent as SkyCity is, it also has to adhere to the strict and outdated gambling laws in New Zealand.
As a result, SkyCity decided to launch its website through a Maltese subsidiary, with a gambling platform and front-end development provided by a Malta-based company – the Gaming Innovation Group. With that step they became one of the most popular online casino New Zealand.
Essentially, SkyCity is doing what most offshore casinos are doing by offering online gambling, including traditional casino games like pokies, Blackjack, and Roulette from abroad, with an evident focus on the New Zealand market and its players. This circumvents the current Gambling Act in place, with some calling it a ‘’legal loophole.’’
Future Gambling Laws in New Zealand
Obviously, the government of New Zealand and local politicians have gotten wind of this situation. As a result, the Department of Internal Affairs is now seeking submissions and is open for discussion regarding a new regulatory framework for online gambling. With a new regulatory framework in place, both domestic and overseas casinos and sportsbooks will be able to operate legally in New Zealand and offer gambling services to its residents.
Most likely, SkyCity will become the first licensed online casino in the newly regulated New Zealand online casino industry and be treated just like its land-based components.
Gaming
Fourth Star Launches Immersive Media Streaming Platform
Fourth Star, the cutting-edge virtual reality immersive media streaming platform, is officially available to the public. This innovative platform transforms traditional entertainment by enabling users to seamlessly watch standard 2D, 180 and 360 immersive media content and movies. Fourth Star redefines how audiences engage with immersive storytelling, offering an unparalleled first-person centric perspective on entertainment.
“Fourth Star is more than just a platform – it’s a revolution in entertainment,” said Greg Simon, Co-Founder & CEO of Fourth Star. “We’ve created an immersive experience where users can not only consume content but also actively participate in it. Our vision is to transform how people experience media content and movies in a way that has never been done before.”
A New Era of Interactive Entertainment
The largest immersive media streaming platform available on Sidequest, users can explore nearly forty unique environments, interact with AI-driven crew, and experience entertainment in an entirely new way. Fourth Star offers a groundbreaking approach to digital engagement, whether socializing in the Cafe, customizing avatars in private Apartments or Ships, or stepping directly into a movie’s storyline.
“The combination of VR, AI, and blockchain in Fourth Star sets a new standard for immersive entertainment,” said Craig Wiltshire, CTO of Fourth Star. “Our vision is to seamlessly integrate all three technologies into the user experience. We are redefining the entertainment experience from passive observation to active creation.”
Built for Content Partners
Fourth Star is a self-serve platform designed for content partners of all sizes, from individual creators to blockbuster studios. Content partners can set up an account, create content channels, and begin monetizing their work immediately. No integration is required, allowing for seamless onboarding and instant access to a global audience. The Creator Portal empowers partners to distribute and profit from their immersive media with ease, making Fourth Star a truly open and accessible metaverse for digital entertainment.
Key Features of Fourth Star
- VR Streaming Platform – Users can access nearly forty environments and own their own luxury apartments and ships all equipped with an immersive media streaming entertainment hub.
- Social & Customization – Connect with others in dynamic social hubs, personalize your avatar, and invite your friends to your own luxury apartment and ship.
- Player Portal – Users can access the web-based marketplace to explore content, invite friends,
- Creator Portal – Set up an account, create content channels, and begin monetizing your work immediately. No integration is required, allowing for seamless onboarding and instant access to a global audience.
- Blockchain Integration – The FSTR token, built on the Polygon blockchain, powers the ecosystem, providing secure transactions and exclusive rewards.
- AI-Powered Companions – Coming soon
FSTR: The Utility Token Powering Fourth Star
FSTR serves as the primary ecosystem currency within the Fourth Star platform, enabling users to purchase Apartments, Ships, AI Companions, and exclusive content. Token holders benefit from:
- VIP Access – Exclusive events, early screenings, and red carpet experiences.
- Discounts – 25% savings on in-app purchases (IAPs) and entertainment content.
A New Paradigm in Entertainment
Fourth Star is designed to deliver the future of entertainment through merging cinematic storytelling with interactive gaming, offering:
- A seamless transition from passive to interactive experiences.
- A thriving community for players, creators, and investors.
- Advanced AI integration for interactive AI characters.
- Don’t just watch the star in the movie, become the star.
Availability and Access
Fourth Star is now live and available for users worldwide on Sidequest. Whether you’re an explorer, content creator large to small, storyteller, or entertainment enthusiast, Fourth Star provides an immersive space to experience digital entertainment like never before.
Gaming
10-15% Of Gamers In Florida Show Signs Of Gaming Addiction: Here Are 10 Signs Your Kid Is Suffering From It (And How You Can Help)
Recent studies indicate that 10-15% of young gamers in Florida exhibit signs of gaming addiction. These findings underscore the need for early identification of symptoms to prevent negative impacts on children’s mental and physical health. Gaming addiction, if not dealt with, can lead to poor academic performance, social withdrawal, and even health problems.
Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO of FreezeNova, discusses key indicators of gaming addiction and offers practical advice for parents.
Recognizing Early Signs
“Early recognition of gaming addiction is crucial in preventing long-term negative outcomes,” Marin explains. The following signs can help parents identify if their child might be developing an addiction:
Exhaustion and Irritability
Constant tiredness and grumpiness during the day could indicate late-night gaming sessions interfering with sleep.
Gaming Obsession
If gaming dominates your child’s thoughts and conversations, and they plan their day around it while neglecting other responsibilities, it could be a sign of addiction.
Decline in Academic Performance and Lost Interests
A noticeable decline in academic performance or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities may suggest your child is prioritizing gaming over more important tasks.
Emotional Volatility
Extreme emotional reactions to in-game outcomes, such as uncontrolled anger, known as ‘Gamer Rage’, or intense celebrations, could indicate an unhealthy attachment to gaming.
Physical Strain
Signs of repetitive strain injuries like ‘Gamer’s Thumb’ or ‘Nintendo Neck’ from prolonged screen time are warning signals.
Neglecting Basic Needs
If your child is neglecting basic needs like eating, sleeping, or hygiene to keep playing, gaming has likely taken an unhealthy control over their life.
Creating a Supportive Environment
While video games can be a great source of entertainment and connection, around 70% of people with signs of gaming addiction also experience social disorders. Marin recommends a few tips for building a supportive and open environment for your child.
Teamwork and Setting Boundaries
“Parents and children should work together to create a healthy gaming environment. Gaming addiction requires a holistic approach,” Marin advises. Start by setting clear boundaries on gaming time to ensure there’s room for schoolwork, chores, and quality family time.
Revisit activities your child once loved, like football practice or exploring new hobbies together. It’s vital for your child to take breaks from screens, so create a balanced daily routine that includes homework, chores, exercise and just some gaming time. This allows your child to enjoy their games without neglecting other aspects of their life.
Open Communication
Maintain open communication. Discuss the games your child enjoys and any concerns you might have. By understanding their world, you can work together to find solutions.
Remember, you’re not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, seek professional help from specialists in gaming addiction. Marin concludes, “By working as a team, setting clear boundaries, and fostering open communication, we can help your child develop a healthy relationship with gaming and thrive in all areas of life.”
Gaming
SPGA Announces Social Sweeps Game Sector Video Briefing
-
Canada5 days ago
Bragg Gaming Announces Preliminary Unaudited Results for the Year Ended December 31, 2024 and 2025 Strategic Initiatives and Guidance
-
Canada5 days ago
Playson Signs Agreement with Light & Wonder in Global Distribution Deal
-
Gaming6 days ago
Fourth Star Launches Immersive Media Streaming Platform
-
Compliance Updates2 days ago
Governor Lombardo Appoints Chandeni Sendall to Nevada Gaming Control Board
-
Compliance Updates5 days ago
Kambi Group plc secures licensing approval in Nevada
-
Compliance Updates2 days ago
PA Gaming Control Board Levies Fines Totaling $282,205
-
Latest News5 days ago
SCCG Launches Cybersecurity Services (CSaaS) to Safeguard the Gaming Industry
-
Latest News1 day ago
SCCG Launches ProServices to Expand a Full Suite of Professional Services for the Gaming Industry