Gambling has been a popular pastime for centuries, with people all around the world engaging in various forms of gambling. However, with advancements in technology and the rise of online gambling platforms, the industry has seen a significant growth in recent years.
New Zealand, known for its scenic beauty and rich culture, is also a country that boasts a vibrant gambling market. In this article, we will take a closer look at the statistics of gambling in New Zealand and explore the current trends in the industry. So, let’s dive in!
The History of Gambling in New Zealand
Gambling has a long history in New Zealand, dating back to the 19th century when horse racing and lotteries were first introduced. While these forms of gambling were enjoyed by the general public, it wasn’t until the 1950s that casinos were legalized in the country. This was followed by the establishment of the New Zealand Lotteries Commission in 1987, which marked the beginning of a more organized and regulated gambling industry in the country.
Over the years, various forms of gambling have been introduced in New Zealand, including pokies (slot machines), sports betting, and online gambling. Today, there are six land-based casinos operating in the country, along with numerous pokie venues and online gambling sites. The industry contributes significantly to the country’s economy, generating millions of dollars in revenue each year.
Now that we have a brief overview of the history of gambling in New Zealand, let’s take a closer look at the current statistics and trends.
Current Gambling Landscape in New Zealand
Revenue Generation
According to the Department of Internal Affairs’ latest report on gambling statistics, the industry generated approximately $2.5 billion in revenue in the 2018/2019 financial year. This was a 3.3% increase from the previous year, indicating a steady growth in the industry.
Out of the total revenue generated, $1.2 billion came from non-casino gaming machines (pokies), followed by $639 million from Lotto and other lottery games, and $541 million from casinos. The remaining revenue was generated from sports betting, horse racing, and other forms of gambling.
Participation Rates
The same report also stated that 80% of New Zealanders have participated in some form of gambling in their lifetime, with over half of the population engaging in gambling activities in the past year. However, the participation rates vary depending on the type of gambling activity. Pokie machines had the highest participation rate at 40%, followed by lottery games at 36%, sports betting at 16%, and casino table games at 11%.
Demographics of Gamblers
When it comes to gender distribution, the statistics show that males are more likely to gamble than females, with a participation rate of 60% for men compared to 51% for women. In terms of age, the highest participation rates were seen in the 18-24 age group, closely followed by the 25-34 age group. It is worth noting that the participation rates decrease as age increases, indicating that gambling is more popular among younger adults.
Most Popular Forms of Gambling
As mentioned earlier, pokies and lottery games are the most popular forms of gambling in New Zealand in terms of revenue generation. However, when it comes to participation rates, sports betting takes the lead, with 16% of the population having engaged in this form of gambling in the past year. This is followed by pokies at 15%, Lotto at 13%, and scratch cards at 7%. Other forms of gambling, such as casino table games and horse racing, have relatively lower participation rates.
Online Gambling Trends
With the rise of technology and the internet, online gambling has become increasingly popular in New Zealand. The latest statistics show that approximately 20% of the total gambling revenue in the country comes from online gambling activities. This includes sports betting, casino games, and lottery games offered through various online platforms.
Gambling Addiction and Harm
While gambling can be an enjoyable and harmless activity for most people, it can also lead to addiction and harm for some individuals. In New Zealand, it is estimated that around 1.3% of the population have a gambling problem, with a further 3% at risk of developing one. This shows that while the majority of people are able to gamble responsibly, there are still significant numbers who struggle with gambling-related issues.
Factors Affecting the Gambling Industry in New Zealand
Now that we have explored the current statistics and trends in the gambling industry in New Zealand, let’s take a look at some of the factors that have an impact on the industry.
Regulatory Framework
The Department of Internal Affairs is responsible for regulating the gambling industry in New Zealand. The department issues licenses, enforces regulations, and ensures that operators comply with the laws and standards set in place. The Gambling Act of 2003 is the main legislation governing the industry, which aims to minimize the harm caused by gambling and ensure that gambling activities are conducted in a fair and transparent manner.
Social Acceptance
Despite the efforts of the government to regulate and control gambling, it remains a highly socially accepted activity in New Zealand. As seen in the participation rates, a large portion of the population engages in gambling, and it is viewed as a form of entertainment by many. This widespread acceptance and normalization of gambling may contribute to the steady growth of the industry.
Technological Advancements
As mentioned earlier, advancements in technology have had a significant impact on the gambling industry in New Zealand. With the rise of online platforms and mobile devices, gambling has become more accessible and convenient, attracting a larger number of players. This trend is expected to continue as technology continues to evolve and new innovations are introduced in the market.
Economic Factors
The gambling industry plays a significant role in the economic growth of New Zealand. Apart from generating revenue for the government, it also creates jobs and boosts tourism, particularly in areas where casinos and other gambling venues are located. This makes it an attractive industry for the government to invest in and regulate.
Social and Cultural Influences
The social and cultural norms of a country can also have an impact on the gambling industry. In New Zealand, gambling has been a part of the culture for decades, and with the introduction of online gambling, it has become even more ingrained in society. The increasing acceptance and normalization of gambling may contribute to its steady growth, as it is seen as a socially acceptable activity.
Challenges Faced by the Gambling Industry in New Zealand
While the gambling industry in New Zealand has seen steady growth over the years, it also faces several challenges that need to be addressed.
Problem Gambling Awareness and Treatment
As mentioned earlier, gambling addiction and harm are prevalent issues in New Zealand. While the Department of Internal Affairs has programs in place to promote responsible gambling and provide support to those struggling with gambling-related problems, there is still a lack of awareness and resources available. More efforts need to be put into educating the public about the risks associated with gambling and providing adequate support and treatment for those affected.
Regulation of Online Gambling
While online gambling is legal in New Zealand, the regulations surrounding it are not as strict as those for land-based gambling. This has led to concerns about the safety and security of players, as well as the potential for increased problem gambling. The government needs to closely monitor and regulate online gambling activities to ensure the protection of players and minimize potential harm.
Competition from Overseas Operators
With the rise of online gambling, players now have access to a vast number of international gambling sites. This has created stiff competition for New Zealand-based operators, as they struggle to retain their customer base and compete with the offerings of overseas sites. The government may need to consider implementing policies to support local operators and protect the industry from foreign competition.
Future Outlook of Gambling in New Zealand
Despite the challenges faced by the gambling industry in New Zealand, the future looks bright. With technological advancements and changing social norms, the industry is expected to continue its growth trajectory in the coming years. However, it is crucial for the government to closely monitor and regulate the industry to ensure that it operates in a responsible and sustainable manner.
Conclusion
In conclusion, gambling has a long history in New Zealand and continues to play a significant role in the country’s economy and culture. The latest statistics show a steady growth in the industry, with pokies, lottery games, and online gambling being the most popular forms of gambling. While there are challenges that need to be addressed, the future looks promising for the gambling industry in New Zealand. It will be interesting to see how the industry evolves in the years to come, with advancements in technology and changing social attitudes towards gambling.
