New Zealand’s racing integrity watchdog is concerned about crypto-enabled operators and offshore wagering linked to local racing.
New Zealand.- The Racing Integrity Board (RIB) is stepping up its efforts ahead of the expected launch of licensed online casino operations and the issuance of permits by the end of 2026. In a case study published by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA), Chief Executive Dr Eliot Forbes highlighted the overlap between online gaming and racing products.
“There is a close relationship between online gaming and racebook offerings,” Forbes wrote, noting that the government’s licensing plans reinforce the need for regulators to understand “the crossover between these products and the integrity risks that can arise from both”.
Although TAB NZ retains exclusive rights to offer race and sports betting to New Zealand residents, the integrity landscape is increasingly international. Domestic wagering represents only around one-third of combined Australasian betting on New Zealand races.
While TAB NZ’s partnership with Entain has modernised systems and products, Forbes warned that it would be “optimistic to assume that New Zealand is insulated” from the rise of offshore and grey-market operators seen in Australia.
A key concern is the growth of crypto-enabled sportsbooks. According to the RIB, more than 50 leading crypto brands accept bets on New Zealand racing, often without paying product fees, sharing integrity data or adhering to anti-money laundering standards. Forbes described this as “a fundamentally parasitic model” that extracts value from racing without supporting its integrity framework.
In response, the RIB is expanding its offshore monitoring, tracking crypto-deposit activity and pushing for greater transparency from operators active on New Zealand racing. The regulator is also supporting policy discussions around tools such as payment interdiction and targeted disruption of illegal marketing.
Forbes said the environment requires “more sophisticated automated online monitoring, sharper intelligence, deeper cooperation and fresh strategies”.
New Zealand’s racing integrity watchdog is concerned about crypto-enabled operators and offshore wagering linked to local racing. New Zealand.- The Racing Integrity Board (RIB) is stepping up its efforts ahead of the expected launch of licensed online casino operations and the issuance of permits by the end of 2026. In a case study published by…
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