A bookmaker is a company or organization that accepts wagers on the results of sporting events and other occurrences and outcomes, including everything from politics to reality TV. In New Zealand, the betting industry is heavily regulated and only licensed operators are permitted to provide these services legally.
Betting has been around for hundreds of years but modern bookmakers started to appear in the 20th century. A legal monopoly hold of sports betting was held by TAB on New Zealand's behalf and was the primary local provider.
As a result of the increased number of digital platforms, there are now international online bookmakers that are accessible to Kiwi punters. If you are just starting out, it makes sense to look at a few of the best betting sites available in New Zealand to compare the features, odds and bonuses.
Since most betting is now done online, here are key factors to look for when choosing a bookmaker:
Licensing and Regulation: TAB NZ is licensed by the New Zealand goverrnment. All international sites that accept NZ customers such as Bet365, Unibet and Betway are regulated in overseas jurisdictions.
Odds & Betting Markets: More sports and events give more flexibility. At TAB, you will find the more popular local sports, where international bookmakers often allow for broader selection.
Live betting and streaming: Live in-play betting and on-demand access to live matches help enrich the experience.
Mobile Apps: A strong mobile experience is crucial — most Kiwi punters prefer betting on the go.
Payment Methods: Look for NZ friendly methods, such as: credit/debit card, bank transfer, POLi, Skrill, or PayPal.
Customer Support: Quick access to support via live chat or email ensures a hassle-free experience betting.
Here are some platforms widely used by New Zealanders:
TAB NZ – The official government-regulated bookmaker.
Bet365 – A global leader in online betting, available to Kiwi users.
Unibet – Known for excellent live betting options and competitive odds.
Betway – Offers great value, diverse markets, and user-friendly tools.
Neds & Ladbrokes – Operate from Australia and accept NZ players.
In New Zealand, online betting is quickly becoming popular. TAB has a functioning website and mobile app, but many users participate due to the better probabilities and variety that comes from international sites.
The transition into the digital age has made betting far more accessible and easy, with punters able to bet anywhere, anytime, even when they are watching a live match on their phone.
New Zealand’s betting industry is governed by the Gambling Act, which outlines:
Legal betting is only permitted through licensed operators.
Offshore platforms are accessible, though not locally regulated.
Advertising of unlicensed operators in New Zealand media is prohibited.
Consumer protection and responsible gambling are key regulatory priorities.
If you're new to sports betting in NZ, keep these tips in mind:
Compare odds across different platforms to find the best value.
Start with small wagers to get a feel for the process.
Take advantage of welcome bonuses — some sites offer up to $100–$200 NZD.
Check user reviews on forums like Reddit or Trustpilot.
Make sure the bookmaker supports New Zealand’s time zone and currency (NZD).
Betting on sports has come a long way in New Zealand, with traditional methods through TAB NZ and a greater opportunity for many other international online bookmakers. For the casual punter and for people wanting to take a more tactical approach, it is important to choose the platform that best suits you, your needs, and betting style!
When determining the best betting site to use, consider important aspects, including licensing, odds quality, mobile accessibility, live betting feature, and responsive customer support. TAB is still a trusted local option that has strong ties to New Zealand, but many Kiwi bettors are also considering all the international sites with a much wider market coverage and enticing betting promotions.
The most sensible option is to check out several best betting sites before picking one. Spend time browsing the different betting sites, look at different reviews, and use welcome bonuses to test out the booking site safely. Remember, gambling responsibly is necessary - only bet what you can afford to lose and seek help if you are feeling overwhelmed. Overall, if you have the right approach and a trusted bookmaker, sports betting can be a fun and possibly lucrative pastime for Kiwis.