Claimants are seeking refunds for gambling losses on SkyCity Online Casino between 2020 and 2026.
New Zealand.- SkyCity Entertainment Group is facing potential class action proceedings over the legality of its offshore online casino operations targeting players in New Zealand. The operator confirmed it has received notice that claimants seek court approval to pursue a funded class action covering gambling losses incurred on SkyCity Online Casino between February 2020 and February 2026.
The proceedings name SkyCity, its subsidiary SkyCity Auckland Holdings Limited, and Malta-based operator Silvereye Entertainment Limited, which runs the online platform on behalf of the group under a licence issued by the Malta Gaming Authority.
According to the company, the lawsuit aims to test the legality of the online casino offering, which launched in 2019 from Malta but specifically targeting customers in the New Zealand market. Local media reports suggest the legal challenge is being backed by an unidentified US-based funder.
At the centre of the dispute is the interpretation of New Zealand’s Gambling Act 2003. Under the law, companies based in New Zealand are prohibited from offering online gaming to residents, with limited exceptions for TAB NZ and New Zealand Lotteries. However, the legislation does not prevent New Zealand residents from gambling on offshore websites.
SkyCity said it intends to contest the case, stating that it believes its online casino activities comply with applicable laws.
Claimants are seeking refunds for gambling losses on SkyCity Online Casino between 2020 and 2026. New Zealand.- SkyCity Entertainment Group is facing potential class action proceedings over the legality of its offshore online casino operations targeting players in New Zealand. The operator confirmed it has received notice that claimants seek court approval to pursue a…
