The Department of Internal Affairs in New Zealand reports that the amount spent on gambling for the year to 30 June 2010 has fallen for the second year in succession. The 5.7% decline to NZ$1.91 billion was caused by lower spending on gaming machines, casino gambling and Lotteries Commission products. According to DIA’s gambling policy manager John Markland, the 4.5% fall in gambling on non-casino gaming machines (pokies) was likely to have been the result of difficult economic conditions.

TAB betting on horses and sports for the year ended 31 July 2010, however, was up by 3.4% to NZ$278 million. Much of the rise was attributed to betting on the World Cup in South Africa. Lottery products saw a 14.2% decline but remain the second most popular form of gambling in the country. Non-casino gaming machines still account for the highest gambling spend (NZ$849 million) despite the 4.5% fall. Gambling at casinos also fell, by 5.8% to NZ$438 million.

The DIA reported that during the year the four major gambling sectors produced a total of NZ$600 million dedicated to a variety of community and sporting activities. In New Zealand Class 4 gambling licence holders (any activity that involves the use of a gaming machine outside a casino is Class 4 gambling) must distribute a minimum of 37.12% of their GST exclusive net proceeds for each of their financial years for charitable purposes, non-commercial purposes with community benefits or promotion, control and conducting race meetings. (E-12.06.10)

© Copyright 2010 CasinoCompendium



>>> return to archives
>>> return to frontpage