Sports betting online

Welcome to the thrilling world of online betting NZ! 

As technology propels us forward, Kiwis are discovering the excitement of online betting. This has led to a surge in both domestic and international betting sites offering unique odds and enticing bonuses.

While TAB NZ caters to many, the diverse needs of bettors have opened the door to other NZ betting sites. These sites, fully licensed and regulated in their respective base countries as per the Gambling Act 2003, offer:

Sports NZ

Choosing the right betting site is crucial for a seamless betting experience. Factors such as better odds, a wider range of betting options, and the generosity of bonuses play a significant role.

The convenience of mobile betting has revolutionized the industry, making it easier than ever to place your best bets on the go. From rugby and cricket to niche sports, the variety of betting options is vast, adding to the appeal of online betting in New Zealand.

Betting can be an enjoyable activity, but remember, it’s crucial to bet responsibly. Many betting sites offer tools to help manage your activities and prevent problem gambling.

So, are you ready to dive in and discover the best betting sites in New Zealand? 

Let’s get started.

Best online betting sites 2024

In New Zealand, the legal status of betting NZ is clear and regulated. The New Zealand Racing Board (NZRB) and the Lotteries Commission are the only entities legally permitted to offer online gambling services within the country. This regulation ensures a safe and fair betting environment for all Kiwis.

However, the law does not prohibit New Zealanders from engaging with international online betting NZ sites.

As long as these betting sites are not based in New Zealand, Kiwis are free to explore and enjoy the diverse betting opportunities they offer, opening up a world of possibilities for bettors in New Zealand.

Sports betting sites general info:

🥇Best sports betting siteLeoVegas
🎙️Best live betting site22 bet
📺Best free live streaming siteLeoVegas
📱Best sports betting appCasumo

Latest news

Understanding the Gambling Act 2003

The Gambling Act 2003 is the cornerstone of betting regulations in New Zealand. It was enacted with the aim to: 

  • control the growth of gambling
  • prevent and minimize harm caused by gambling
  • limit opportunities for crime and dishonesty
  • ensure that money from gambling benefits the community 

The New Zealand Racing Board (NZRB) – now part of Totalisator Agency Board (TAB) – is the key body responsible for regulating and overseeing betting activities in the country. All betting sites operating in New Zealand must adhere to this Act, ensuring a safe and fair gambling environment for all Kiwis.

Legal age for betting

In New Zealand, the thrill of betting isn’t just for anyone–it’s a privilege reserved for those of legal age. 

For most betting activities, you must be at least 20 years old. However, for certain games like Instant Kiwi and Lotto, the threshold is slightly lower at 18 years. 

This age restriction is a measure to promote responsible gambling and protect young individuals from potential harm. So, before you dive into the exciting world of betting, make sure you’re of legal age. 

Remember, responsible gambling is not just about how much you bet, but also about betting within the legal and ethical boundaries.

Taxation on winnings

In New Zealand, the taxation rules surrounding gambling winnings are quite clear. 

Generally, winnings from activities such as a raffle, Lotto, or prize money in a draw are not taxable. This also applies to prize money from a dog, horse, or trotting race through the TAB, making horse betting a popular choice for many New Zealanders.

However, the situation changes if you are considered a professional gambler. 

Who’s considered a professional gambler? The definition of a professional gambler isn’t specific, but if betting is your regular and primary source of income, you may fall into this category. 

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) may consider factors such as:

  • The frequency of gambling: If you’re gambling on a regular basis, it could be seen as a professional activity.
  • The level of organization involved: If you’re using complex strategies or systems, or have employees or a business structure, it could indicate professional gambling.
  • The intention to make a profit: If your gambling activities are aimed at making a consistent profit rather than just occasional winnings, it could be seen as a professional activity.

If you’re deemed a professional gambler, your gambling winnings could be treated as taxable income. Examples of taxable prize money could include:

  • a farmer who wins money for an exhibit at an agricultural show
  • an author who wins prize money for one of their books in a competition, or 
  • a professional sports person’s prize winnings.

This is a complex area of law and can vary depending on individual circumstances. It’s recommended to consult with a tax professional or legal expert for advice tailored to your situation. For more detailed information, you can visit the New Zealand Inland Revenue Department’s page on taxing prize money

If you’re want to get in to the world of betting and casino games from a base level – check out our beginner’s guide and learn more.

Top 3 NZ betting sites

When it comes to NZ betting sites, there are several top-tier options that stand out due to their excellent service, diverse betting options, and robust security measures. 

These platforms have established a strong reputation among Kiwi bettors and continue to offer a superior betting experience. 

Let’s delve into the specifics of the top three betting sites in New Zealand: LeoVegas, 22 Bet, and Wazamba.

LeoVegas

LeoVegas is a premier NZ betting site that offers a vast array of sports betting options. It stands out with its live or in-play betting feature, allowing users to place bets on ongoing games. 

The BetBuilder feature is another highlight, enabling users to combine different individual bet options from their favourite sports to create increased odds. 

The LeoVegas platform is mobile-friendly, ensuring a seamless online betting NZ experience on the go. You can read more about this casino in our LeoVegas review.

Available Sports: 

  • Rugby (both League and Union) 
  • Cricket Football 
  • Tennis 
  • Basketball 
  • Horse betting 
  • UFC
  • American 
  • Football 
  • Baseball 
  • Greyhound Racing

Bonus offer(s): Free bet of up to $50 when signing up and placing your first bet of $10 or more. 

Terms and Conditions: 

  • No free bets option – all sports betting must be placed with real money. 
  • Emphasizes responsible gambling and is licensed and regulated by the Malta Gaming Authority
  • Uses cookies to personalize content, tailor user experience, and analyze traffic.

It’s always recommended to read the terms and conditions thoroughly before starting your betting journey. For more information on responsible gambling, visit our responsible gambling page.

22 Bet

22 Bet stands out as one of the top NZ betting sites with its real-time updates on sports events and betting odds. Catering to both novices and seasoned gamblers, it offers a broad spectrum of betting options. 

The platform’s live betting feature is accessible on both desktops and mobile devices, enabling users to get involved in online betting during live sports events. Learn more about this casino and their different offers in our 22 Bet review

Available Sports: 

  • Football 
  • Ice Hockey 
  • Table Tennis 
  • Tennis 
  • Basketball 
  • Cricket 
  • Snooker 
  • Handball 
  • Curling 
  • Formula 1 
  • eSports (Valorant, Dota 2, CS: GO, and League of Legends)

Bonuses: 

  • Friday reload bonus
  • Weekly rebate program 
  • Accumulator of the day

* The platform also caters to professional gamblers with special opportunities, allowing them to place multiple bets for potentially larger profits.

Terms and Conditions

  • 22 Bet adheres to all guidelines and restrictions set out in their Curacao gaming license to ensure fair gambling options and top-quality safe services. 
  • All bets are protected by encryption (including those on virtual sports)
  • The platform maintains transparency in its rules concerning the receipt and use of bonuses, sports betting possibilities, and more. 

Wazamba

Wazamba stands out as one of the top NZ betting sites due to its comprehensive and user-friendly platform. It offers a wide array of pre-match, live, and virtual sports betting options, catering to both novice and seasoned bettors. Wazamba offers an extensive range of sports to bet on, making it one of the best betting sites in New Zealand. Read more about their different offers and games in our Wazamba review

Available Sports: 

  • Football
  • Tennis
  • Basketball
  • Rugby
  • Golf
  • Baseball
  • Boxing
  • MMA
  • Cricket
  • Snooker
  • Bandy

* In addition to traditional sports, Wazamba also caters to the growing eSports market, offering betting options on popular games like Call of Duty, League of Legends, and Dota 2.

Bonuses: Wazamba Casino offers a total of three special bonuses to all their new sports betting players: 

  • Welcome Bonus: 100% up to $50
  • Cashback Bonus: $500 weekly
  • Reload Bonus: 50% of a player’s deposit up to $500

Terms and Conditions: 

  • Bonuses are available to all registered users who are eligible to receive bonuses. 
  • Bonuses are subject to wagering requirements, and the bonus amount must be used within a specified time frame. 
  • Any active withdrawal requests before receiving the bonus will void any bonus eligibility.

REMEMBER! Online betting NZ is a fun activity, but it’s important to bet responsibly. If you’re new to betting, check out our guide on how to start betting on sports in New Zealand.

Key considerations when selecting a NZ betting site

When embarking on your sports betting journey in New Zealand, it’s crucial to choose the right platform. The ideal NZ betting site should not only offer a wide range of betting options but also ensure a secure, user-friendly, and rewarding betting experience. 

Let’s delve into the essential factors you should consider.

Prioritizing site security and licensing

Choosing a licensed and secure betting site is paramount for a safe and fair betting experience. All the bookmakers reviewed on our site, including top NZ betting sites, are licensed and regulated, ensuring they operate legally and fairly. In New Zealand, sports betting sites are governed by the Racing Industry Act 2020

This act sets out rules and regulations that protect users, ensuring transparency and integrity in the betting industry. It’s essential to understand that any reputable online betting NZ platform will adhere to these regulations, providing a secure environment for bettors.

The importance of competitive odds

Competitive odds play a significant role in enhancing your potential winnings. Each betting site offers slightly different odds for the same events, so it’s crucial to find the best value possible. By choosing a platform with competitive odds, you can maximize your potential returns from successful bets. 

Odds explained

For instance, renowned platforms like 22 Bet are noted for offering very good odds, making them a popular choice among bettors. 

Always remember, the more favourable the odds, the higher your potential payout.

Evaluating customer service

Quality customer service is a crucial aspect of any top-notch betting site. Many bookmakers, including the best betting sites in NZ, offer comprehensive customer support platforms. 

These often include live chat and phone support, with at least one of these services typically available 24/7. 

However, the quality of customer service can vary significantly among different sites. The best sites provide round-the-clock support, quick response times, and knowledgeable staff ready to assist with any queries or issues.

Assessing payment options

The availability of diverse and convenient payment options is another important factor to consider. Common deposit and withdrawal methods at NZ betting sites include Debit/Credit Card, PayPal, Neteller, Paysafecard, and POLi. 

The ease of depositing and withdrawing funds can significantly influence your decision to use a particular bookkeeper. Therefore, it’s advisable to choose a platform that offers a wide range of secure and efficient payment methods to ensure a smooth betting experience.

Grasping the concept of betting odds

Betting odds are a fundamental aspect of sports betting. They indicate the potential profit you can gain from a bet, allowing both you and the bookmakers to calculate potential returns. 

Betting odds come in various formats, including fractional, decimal, and American style. 

Most NZ betting sites, like Wazamba, allow you to change the format to suit your preferences. Understanding how to read and calculate these odds is key to successful sports betting in NZ.

Deciphering betting odds

Understanding how to read betting odds is crucial for successful betting. Here’s a breakdown of the three main types:

  1. Fractional Odds: In this format, the number on the right of the fraction indicates how much you can win if you wager the number on the left. 

EXAMPLE: Odds of 3/1 mean that for every NZ$1 you bet, you could win NZ$3.

  1. Decimal Odds: These odds display your potential total return (stake plus profit) from a NZ$1 wager. 

EXAMPLE:  Odds of 3.0, you can make NZ$2 profit from a NZ$1 stake, returning NZ$3 in total.

  1. American Odds: This format presents a triple-digit number with either a (-) or (+) symbol. The numbers next to a (-) sign indicate how much you need to bet to win NZ$100. Conversely, the (+) symbol next to the numbers tells you how much you can win by betting NZ$100.

Calculating winnings with betting odds

Here’s how you can calculate your potential winnings for each type of betting odds:

Fractional Odds

Formula: Multiply your stake by the fraction to calculate your potential profit. 

Example: with odds of 3/1 and a NZ$5 stake, your potential profit is 3 * NZ$5 = NZ$15.

Decimal Odds

Formula: Subtract 1 from the odds, then multiply the result by your stake. 

Example: with odds of 4.00 and a NZ$12 stake, your potential profit is (4.00 – 1) * NZ$12 = NZ$36.

American Odds

Formula: For (-) odds, divide your stake by the odds and multiply by 100. For (+) odds, multiply your stake by the odds and divide by 100. 

Example: with (-) odds of -200 and a NZ$50 stake, your potential profit is (NZ$50 / 200) * 100 = NZ$25. With (+) odds of +200 and a NZ$50 stake, your potential profit is (NZ$50 * 200) / 100 = NZ$100.

Betting odds and implied probability

Understanding the concept of implied probability is crucial when it comes to finding value in betting. Implied probability is a percentage that indicates the likelihood of a particular outcome. If you believe that an outcome is more likely to occur than what the bookmaker’s implied probability suggests, you might find a valuable betting opportunity.

Promotions and bonuses

In the competitive world of online betting, promotions and bonuses play a significant role in attracting and retaining bettors. From welcome bonuses to loyalty rewards, these incentives not only enhance your betting experience but also provide additional value for your money. 

Let’s delve into the different types of bonuses and how to make the most of them.

Understanding bonus terms and conditions

Promotions and bonuses are a significant part of the online betting experience. They can provide extra value and enhance your gameplay in very significant ways. 

However, it’s essential to understand the terms and conditions attached to these bonuses. 

These include the wagering requirements, minimum deposit amounts, and other restrictions that may apply. 

For instance: some bonuses may require you to bet a certain amount before you can withdraw your winnings. 

By understanding these conditions, you can make the most of the bonuses offered by NZ betting sites.

For a more detailed understanding of bonuses and their terms, visit our comprehensive guide on casino bonuses.

Types of bonuses

The different types of bonuses you will receive will vary based on the casino but among them you will find the following:

  1. Deposit Free Bet: This bonus is awarded when you deposit money into your betting account. It’s a great way to boost your betting balance right from the start.
  2. No Deposit Free Bet: This is a bonus that you receive without needing to deposit any money. It’s often part of a promotion and is a fantastic way to try out a betting site without any risk.
  3. Matched Free Bet: This is a bonus where the betting site matches the value of your bet or deposit. For example, a 100% matched free bet up to $60 means that if you deposit $60, you’ll receive an additional $60 as a free bet.
  4. Free Bet Bonus: This bonus is awarded for fulfilling some other requirement, such as being part of a free bet club or for placing eligible bets. It’s a great way to get rewarded for your regular betting activity.
  5. Welcome/Sign-Up Free Bet: This is a bonus that you receive after joining a betting site. It’s the most common type of free bet offer and can take the form of Deposit Free Bets, No Deposit Free Bets, and/or Matched Free Bets.

Remember to always check the terms and conditions of these bonuses on the betting site.

Embracing responsible gambling on NZ betting sites

Responsible gambling is a crucial aspect of engaging in NZ betting sites. 

It entails understanding the betting odds, setting personal limits, and viewing gambling as a form of entertainment rather than a money-making venture. Awareness of problem gambling signs, such as overspending or conflicts arising from gambling activities, is also vital.

Let’s dive a little bit deeper into how to safeguard your online betting experience at NZ casinos online. 

Setting betting limits

When engaging with NZ betting sites, it’s paramount to set betting limits. This involves determining a budget that you can comfortably afford to lose without affecting your financial stability. Remember, betting NZ should be a fun pastime, not a financial burden.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to set your limits at casinos:

  1. Assess your financial situation: Take a close look at your income, expenses, and savings. Determine how much you can afford to lose without it affecting your lifestyle or ability to meet your financial obligations.
  2. Set your limit: Once you’ve determined a comfortable amount, set this as your maximum betting limit. This could be a daily, weekly, or monthly limit, depending on your preference.
  3. Stick to your limit: The most crucial step is adhering to your set limit. Even if you’re on a winning streak, resist the temptation to go beyond your set limit.
  4. Regularly review your limit: Life circumstances change, and so should your betting limit. Regularly review and adjust your limit to ensure it still fits within your budget.

Remember, the best betting sites and online betting NZ platforms will have features that allow you to set these limits easily. 

Always play responsibly and enjoy the thrill of sports betting NZ within your means.

Getting help for problem gambling

If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, it’s crucial to seek help.

New Zealand offers numerous resources, including the Gambling Helpline, a 24-hour free service providing immediate support. This service also offers specialist helplines for Māori, Pasifika, Debt, and Youth gambling.

  • Māori Gambling Helpline: 0800 654 656 
  • Pasifika Gambling Helpline: 0800 654 657 
  • Debt Gambling Helpline: 0800 654 658 
  • Youth Gambling Helpline: 0800 654 659

Another valuable resource is Safer Gambling Aotearoa, providing guidance and support for those concerned about their own or someone else’s gambling.

Remember, there’s no shame in seeking help

On the contrary, it shows strength and the determination to regain control. Whether you’re in need of a text, phone call, or Zoom session, free and confidential support is readily available.

Engaging with someone outside of your situation can often bring a fresh perspective and much-needed relief. Face-to-face interactions offer a more personal level of support, helping you navigate through your journey towards safer online betting NZ.

Conclusion about New Zealand online betting

Online betting NZ is a thriving industry, with numerous NZ betting sites offering diverse betting options. 

The key to a rewarding experience lies in selecting a secure site with competitive odds, diverse betting options, and enticing bonuses. 

Mobile betting has made gambling more accessible to everyone and where betting before was only possible at home or at the tracks, today everyone can have access to their favourite sports betting options from the comfort of their own homes.

Remember, in New Zealand, the legal betting age is generally 20, and while casual winnings aren’t taxable, professional gamblers may be. 

Top sites like LeoVegas, 22 Bet, and Wazamba offer a range of sports and bonuses. 

Always understand the terms of promotions, gamble responsibly, and seek help if needed.

FAQ

Is it legal to bet online in New Zealand?

Absolutely. Although TAB NZ has a betting monopoly in New Zealand under the Gambling Act 2003, online betting on international bookmakers is not regulated by any law and is therefore legal.

NZ bettors will not have to pay any additional fees on paid wins nor will they have any problems with the law or the tax service.

How do sports betting odds work?

Sport odds indicate the probability of a certain sports event outcome.

When looking at betting odds players can calculate the eventual payout amount from a particular bet they pick.

Sport betting odds are displayed in different forms including the most common in NZ being decimal, fractional and Moneyline.

No matter what form of odds is offered, the eventual payout amount is always the same.

More about odds here!

Can I receive online betting bonuses?

Yes of course. All NZ wagering destinations recommended on our site have reward programs with promotions, bonuses and special prizes created for new and existing customers.

What does the + and – mean in sports betting?

Plus and minus (positive and negative) in sports betting refers to Moneyline odds better known as American odds.

They often have a currency symbol inserted next to them.

The plus sign (+) next to the offered team, player or horse means that it is udnerfog (weaker), while the sign (-) next to the team, player or horse means that it is the favorite.

What does a handicap mean in sports betting?

Handicap is the advantage in goals, points or percentages that a bookmaker gives to one of the participants in a sporting event.

In a match between two teams, the handicap is awarded to the weaker team, and thus gains a certain advantage, on the other hand, the favorite of that duel is deprived of the advantage at the start.