for early access to the latest igaming videos!
and get the latest igaming news first!
Entain is making moves towards gaining a big stake in the developing industry of online casinos in New Zealand, with chief executive officer Stella David stating that Entain intends to control about 50% of the market once licenses are made available. This comes after the country is expected to open its licensing procedure at some point during 2026, opening up a chance in an industry that is yet to fully develop.
Expanding Into A New Market
The company has said it plans to bid for 3 licenses when New Zealand begins accepting applications. That strategy would give Entain a direct path into the country’s online casino sector, which is still awaiting formal regulation. At present, online gambling is not allowed in New Zealand, although the government has already moved to change that through new legislation.
The legalization of iGaming began in June 2025, marking the beginning of the licensing of up to 15 sites in the country. Entain is expected to acquire licenses for 3 of these sites. The company sees its current position in the country as an advantage, particularly through its existing betting arm TAB.
Existing Footprint And Cross-Selling
According to David, Entain is the only online operator that can cross-sell between sports betting and iGaming because of TAB, the state-backed betting system that operates as New Zealand’s sole legal provider of both retail and online sports betting. That setup, the company believes, could give it access to a large existing customer base once online casino products are introduced.
Andrew Vouris, CEO of Entain Australia and New Zealand, said the company’s current footprint and experience in New Zealand already provide a strong base for success. This will enable the company to be the only player in the market offering its customers sports betting services, horse racing, and potentially even casino gaming services, which could set the company apart if this licensing process goes according to plan.
Growth Despite Earlier Cuts
Entain’s ambitions in New Zealand come only months after the company announced job cuts in its local branch as part of efforts to lower operating costs. Nonetheless, the firm’s plans for expansion have not been set aside, and David noted that the online gaming unit was picking up steam.
Net Gaming Revenue growth is forecast at 5% to 7% in constant currency terms. During the latest earnings call, David also said total group NGR increased by 8% to $6.6 billion in 2025. That performance has helped keep attention on the company’s digital operations even as it prepares to enter a new regulated market.
Positioning For The Next Stage
Entain already holds the exclusive licence for online sports and racing betting in New Zealand, where it has recorded a 28% year-on-year increase in performance. That gives the company a familiar base as it looks toward the country’s future online casino sector.
With the application process still ahead, Entain’s plans are centered on turning its existing presence into a wider gaming offering. If it secures the 3 licenses it is targeting, the company would be positioned to extend its reach in a market that is only just beginning to open up.
Source: Gambling News
