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A nationwide warning has been issued after the Department of Internal Affairs disrupted nine alleged illegal gambling venues across Auckland, in what officials describe as a growing problem hiding in plain sight.
The DIA executed a series of search warrants and inspections targeting locations believed to be offering unlicensed poker games, seizing poker tables, chips, cash, cryptocurrency, and a range of electronic devices.
While investigations continue, the regulator says the scale and openness of the activity is cause for alarm.
Vicki Scott, Director of Gambling at the DIA, said the venues often masquerade as legitimate operations. She noted that many use signage and social-media promotion to appear licensed while knowingly breaching the Gambling Act 2003.
According to Scott, patrons frequently have no idea they are participating in illegal gambling and therefore have no protection if disputes or harm arise. She warned that some operators go further by offering credit to players, a practice that can leave people with substantial debts.
Scott said illegal gambling can fuel financial harm, addiction, and links to criminal activity, while also undermining public trust in licensed operators and community fundraising efforts.
She urged New Zealanders to stay vigilant, stressing that outward appearances can be deceiving.
“These venues are designed to look legitimate, but they’re not,” she said.
The DIA is advising the public to pay close attention to how venues present themselves, noting that legal operations will display a valid gambling licence and clearly state the rules of any gambling activity.
Officials say people should be wary of vague promotions, prize draws advertised without terms, venues reluctant to discuss their licence status, and locations that rely heavily on social media, operate cash-only, or make use of cryptocurrency.
Offering credit to gamble, including disguised arrangements such as “sponsorships” in exchange for a share of winnings is illegal.
Property and venue owners are also being reminded they can face prosecution, fines, and reputational damage if they allow their premises to be used for unlawful gambling.
Scott emphasised that operators must know what is occurring on their premises, and that “turning a blind eye is not an option.”
Alongside the venues running openly, the DIA believes some high-stakes poker operations are running covertly in private circles, exposing participants to significant financial and personal risk.
Under the Gambling Act 2003, any poker game with prizes exceeding $5,000 or ticket sales over $25,000 requires a Class 3 gambling licence.
Only incorporated societies can apply for these licences, and proceeds must go toward authorised community purposes or covering prize costs. Private profit from ticket sales is prohibited.
The DIA is encouraging anyone with concerns or information about suspected illegal gambling to contact the department directly or visit its official website: dia.govt.nz.
