Sports betting is very popular among Kiwis. In this guide, we will review the best betting sites in New Zealand. We also look at the legal side of things and list some tips and strategies to help you make the most of your sports betting experience.
Best Online Sports Betting Sites in New Zealand
Top Sportsbooks for New Zealand Bettors
New Zealand has so many choices when it comes to Sports Betting sites, but finding the right one is the challenge of course! We have, therefore, done the homework for you and listed below some of the top betting sites NZ has to offer.
We also include the pros and cons of each site and a few expert tips to help you make your decision:
Supabet is a Kiwi-friendly sportsbook which covers heaps of local and international sports. It is easy to find your way around the site and is perfect if you want to place some bets on the All Blacks versus the Springboks or other sporting events like cricket, football or even horse racing.
Top Features:
- Competitive odds on rugby and cricket.
- Live betting with real-time updates.
- Welcome bonus of 100% up to $200 if you are new to sports betting.
- Easy navigation and mobile-friendly design.
- Great odds for local sports
- Excellent mobile experience
- Multiple Cryptocurrencies accepted
- Verification processes can take a while.
My Take: Supabet is great when it comes to New Zealand betting and is loved by many rugby fans, but I would have felt more comfortable if they jacked up their verification.
QuickWin lives up to its name by providing very quick payments of winnings. It also has a wide range of sports events to place bets on. If you sign up as a new sports bettor you can claim a 100% welcome bonus up to $200 which seems to be the norm among NZ betting sites.
Top Features:
- Instant payout options.
- Extensive selection of sports and markets.
- Regular promotions for existing players.
- Fast withdrawals
- Comprehensive sports coverage
- Generous ongoing promotions
- Limited live streaming options
- Higher minimum deposits
My Take: QuickWin’s fast payouts and variety of betting options make it ideal for players who value speed and convenience. The limited live streaming is its only negative, but it is still a solid sportsbook overall.
RTBet combines traditional betting with modern features, offering very comprehensive stats and analytics, along with live betting options, so it is perfect for you if you like to know all the ins and outs and stats of the team you are betting on.
Top Features:
- Comprehensive stats and analytics.
- Live betting with cash-out options.
- Multi-language customer support.
- Frequent bonuses and promotions.
- Advanced analytics for informed betting
- Reliable customer support
- Great bonuses for new bettors
- Interface could be more modern
- Fewer niche sports options
My Take: RTBet is ideal for bettors who value data-driven decisions. While the design could use an upgrade, its data and analytics make it a smart choice for strategic bettors.
SlotsPalace combines casino gaming with sports betting, offering a versatile platform for those who enjoy variety. Its polished design and range of betting options make it appealing to a broad audience.
Top Features:
- Hybrid platform for sports and casino gaming.
- High-quality user interface.
- Daily promotions and bonus offers.
- Wide range of payment options.
- You can play casino games and bet on sports
- Generous daily bonuses
- Excellent payment flexibility
- Limited live betting options
- Sports betting options could be broader
My Take: SlotsPalace is great for players who want a mix of casino gaming and sports betting. While it doesn’t offer as many sports betting options as other NZ betting sites, it's still a fantastic all-in-one platform.
- Regular promotions
- Easy-to-use platform
- Great variety of sports markets
- Limited live streaming options
- Withdrawal times could be faster
My Take: Malina Casino is perfect if you like to take part in regular promotions. While it’s not as feature-packed for advanced sports bettors, it’s a fun and reliable option.
My Insight
Choosing the right sportsbook comes down to your personal preferences. For local sports fans, Supabet’s competitive odds on rugby and cricket make it an ideal option while QuickWin is the go-to for fast payouts.
RTBet is the best one if you like in-depth analytics and data and if you want variety and enjoy playing casino games on the side, then the SlotsPalace hybrid approach is ideal.
Malina Casino is the best one for regular promotions. At the end of the day, all of the above betting sites NZ are reputable and cater to NZ bettors so whichever one you choose should give you what you are looking for.
Free Bets, Bonuses & Promotions
Online betting sites often a variety of bonuses and promotions to attract new players and retain loyal customers. These offers provide extra value and allow you to try new strategies or bet on matches with reduced financial risk. Here's a breakdown of the most common types of bonuses on offer at New Zealand betting sites:
Types of Bonuses and Promotions
Welcome Bonus
A reward for new players upon signing up, often matching the first deposit by a percentage (e.g., 100%).
Best used to explore the platform’s features and games.
Free Bets
Offer free wagering opportunities without risking your own money. It is normally offered when there is a special event.
No Deposit Bonus
A small bonus is given just for registering, with no deposit required.
Great for beginners to try the site risk-free.
Reload Bonuses
These are designed for existing players, providing a percentage match on additional deposits.
Encourages you to become a regular player at the betting site.
Cashback Offers
Refunds a portion of your losses over a specific period, softening the blow of unlucky bets.
Enhanced Odds Promotions
These are adhoc offers where the sportsbook will boost the payout odds on select events to get you to place bets on the event.
How to Evaluate Offers
- Wagering Requirements: Check terms for playthrough requirements before withdrawing winnings.
- Eligible Events/Games: Some bonuses only apply to specific bets or games.
- Expiration Period: Use bonuses before they expire as the sportsbook may remove the bonus if you don’t use it within a specific time period.
How to Choose a Sportsbook and How We Rate Them
Finding the right sportsbook is crucial if you want to feel comfortable depositing your money and placing bets there. With so many options available, evaluating each platform carefully ensures you choose the one that suits you the best. Below we have given some tips on how we rate sites to find the best betting sites, and what you should consider before choosing a sportsbook.
Main Things to Consider
Safety, Trust, and Licensing
Verify that the sportsbook is licensed by a reputable authority (e.g., UKGC, MGA).
Ensure the site uses secure encryption to protect your personal and financial data.
Betting Markets and Odds Quality
Check the variety of sports and events available.
Look for competitive odds.
Bonuses and Promotions
- See what welcome bonuses, free bets, and ongoing promotions are on offer.
- Read the wagering requirements and other terms and conditions.
Banking Transactions
- Look for Kiwi-friendly payment methods, including e-wallets, bank transfers, and crypto.
- Consider deposit and withdrawal speed, as well as any transaction fees.
Main Features
- Prioritize live betting, cash-out options, and mobile compatibility if these are important to you.
- Explore additional tools like stats, live streams, or bet builders.
Customer Support and User Experience
- Test customer support via live chat, email, or phone.
- Ensure the site is easy to navigate on both desktop and mobile phones.
Availability
- Confirm the platform is accessible in your region and supports your preferred currency.
How to Choose the Best Betting Site for You
Your choice will depend on your betting style. If you are a beginner you may prioritize safety and user-friendliness, while bonus hunters might look for generous promotions with low wagering requirements.
If you like to place bets and play casino games from your mobile phone, then a sportsbook with casino apps and sports betting apps would be helpful. If you like live betting, then you should consider choosing a platform that offers fast updates and easy play options. First, decide what your preferences are and then choose your New Zealand betting site accordingly.
Is Sports Betting Legal in New Zealand?
Sports betting is legal and regulated in New Zealand under the Gambling Act 2003. The industry is overseen by strict regulations to ensure fair play, consumer protection, and responsible gambling. If you live in New Zealand you can legally participate in single-game betting and multi-bets (parlays) through authorized online sportsbooks.
The TAB (Totalisator Agency Board) is the sole provider of legal sports betting in New Zealand. Offshore betting is not explicitly illegal for players, but offshore operators are not permitted to advertise their services within the country.
Evolution of Sports Betting in New Zealand
Sports betting in New Zealand has a rich history, beginning with the introduction of horse racing wagering in the late 19th century. The Racing Act 2003, later incorporated into the Gambling Act 2003, established a legal framework for sports betting and allowed the TAB to expand its offerings to cover a wide range of sports.
The start of online betting sites significantly changed the betting landscape in New Zealand, with the TAB launching its online betting site in the early 2000s. Today, you can enjoy modern features such as live betting, mobile betting apps, and competitive odds on local and international sports.
Culturally, sports betting has become an integral part of New Zealand's sporting landscape, with many fans placing bets on rugby, cricket, and horse racing. Sponsorships and partnerships between the TAB and major sporting organizations, such as New Zealand Rugby, have further integrated betting into the country's sports culture.
Requirements to Bet on Sports in New Zealand
Before placing a bet in New Zealand, you need to make sure you meet the criteria below. By following these guidelines, you can safely and legally enjoy New Zealand Betting.
- Minimum Age: You must be at least 18 years old to participate in sports betting.
Residency: You can place wagers within New Zealand and there are no residency requirements for accessing the TAB's services. - ID Verification: A valid, government-issued ID is required to confirm age and identity when creating an account or withdrawing winnings.
- Prohibited Individuals: Sports officials, players, and other individuals directly involved in sports events are barred from betting on those events.
- Betting Platform: Bets must be placed through licensed operators, such as the TAB, to comply with New Zealand law.
- Taxes: Winnings from sports betting are not taxed in New Zealand, as gambling profits are considered windfalls and not income.
How to Get Started with Online Betting
Online betting can be an exciting and enjoyable experience when approached with the right knowledge. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Understanding Betting Basics
It’s always a good idea to get to know the various betting terms used by online sportsbooks, especially if you are new to the sports betting scene. Below we have given a summary of a few of the most common terms used:
- Odds: Indicates the probability of an event and determines potential payouts.
- Stake: The amount of money you wager on a bet.
- Payout: The total amount you receive if your bet wins (stake × odds).
- Bet Slip: A virtual ticket showing your selected bets, odds, and potential winnings.
Common bet types include:
- Single Bets: A wager on a single outcome.
- Accumulators: Combine multiple selections into one bet for higher potential returns.
- In-Play Betting: Place bets on live games as they happen.
Setting Up an Account
- Choose a reputable New Zealand Betting site and click “Sign Up.”
- Provide your personal details like name, address, and date of birth.
- Complete identity verification with a government-issued ID to comply with regulations.
- Deposit funds using your preferred payment methods to start betting.
Placing Your First Bet
- Look through the sportsbook and select a market or event.
- Choose the type of bet and enter your stake.
- Review your bet slip for accuracy, including odds and potential payouts.
- Click “Place Bet” to confirm your wager.
Tips for Beginners
- Start Small: Begin with low stakes to build confidence and understand the process.
- Set a Budget: Establish a limit for your bets and stick to it to avoid overspending.
- Research: Study the teams, players, or markets before placing your bets.
Advantages of Online Betting
Online betting platforms offer numerous benefits which make them popular among Kiwi punters:
- Convenience and Accessibility: Bet anytime, anywhere, using your computer or mobile phone.
- Variety of Markets: You can access a broad range of sports, leagues, and bet types that are not normally available at traditional betting shops.
- Bonuses and Promotions: You can take advantage of welcome offers, free bets, and ongoing promotions.
- Advanced Features: Use tools like live betting, cash-out options, and odds comparison for a better experience.
- Better Odds: You get to choose your sportsbook, so can compare which ones have the best odds.
- Safety and Security: Licensed platforms ensure secure transactions and protect personal data.
Understanding Odds and Betting Markets
Understanding how odds work is an important aspect of online betting as the Odds Odds represent the probability of a specific outcome and determine how much you can win relative to your stake. There are three common formats for presenting odds:
- Decimal Odds: These are the most popular in New Zealand. The number represents the total payout (stake + winnings). For example, odds of 2.50 mean that for every $1 you bet, you could win $2.50.
- Fractional Odds: Common in the UK, fractional odds show how much you win relative to your stake. For example, odds of 5/1 mean you could win $5 for every $1 you bet.
- Moneyline Odds: Used primarily in the US, these odds indicate how much you would need to bet to win $100 (for negative odds) or how much you would win from a $100 bet (for positive odds). For example, -150 means you need to bet $150 to win $100, and +200 means a $100 bet could win you $200.
Types of Bets Available
Some of the most common betting markets include:
- Moneyline Bets: A bet on the outright winner of a game or event.
- Point Spread: A bet on the margin of victory. A favourite must win by a certain number of points to cover the spread, while the underdog can lose by that margin and still win the bet.
- Over/Under (Totals): A bet on whether the total points, goals, or other measurable statistic in a game will be over or under a set amount.
- Parlays: A bet that combines multiple selections into one bet, where all selections must win for the bet to pay out.
- Prop Bets: Bets on specific events or occurrences within a game, such as player statistics or game outcomes.
Popular sports to bet on include football, basketball, tennis, horse racing, and cricket. Many Betting sites in NZ take bets on these sports among many others.
Other Types of Bets Available
While traditional sports betting is the most popular in New Zealand, several other types of bets have gained popularity in recent years:
- Esports: Betting on competitive video gaming has surged in popularity, driven by a growing esports audience and major tournaments for games like League of Legends, Dota 2, and CS: GO. In Legal New Zealand, esports betting is seen as loads of fun and can be profitable too.
- Entertainment and Ceremonies: Betting on events such as award shows (e.g., the Oscars) and ceremonies is another growing market. You can even place bets on whether an actor will win an Oscar.
- Politics: Betting on political events like elections has attracted global interest, especially in major markets like the US and UK. It is not really common in New Zealand.
- Novelty Bets: Novelty bets involve unusual or non-sporting events, like betting on the weather or who will win a reality TV show.
Market-Specific Betting Options
In New Zealand, specific cultural and legal considerations shape sports betting options:
- College Sports: Betting on college sports is legal but may be subject to stricter regulations. It's essential to ensure compliance with age restrictions and laws related to betting on athletes who are not professional.
- Local Teams: New Zealand has a strong following for teams like All Blacks (rugby), Warriors (rugby league), and Black Caps (cricket). Bettors often show loyalty to local teams, which can influence betting trends and the odds offered.
Legal Considerations
In New Zealand, all betting must be done through licensed operators like the TAB. New Zealand residents can place online bets on overseas sportsbooks. It's crucial to ensure the site you use is fully licensed and compliant with local regulations, particularly when it comes to age restrictions and the betting of minors.
Betting Trends and Common Bets
In New Zealand, popular bets include over/under for rugby and cricket matches, live betting for dynamic events like rugby games, and prop bets on specific player performances. These types of bets are often influenced by local sports culture and the high level of interest in major national sporting events like the Rugby World Cup and Super Rugby.
Mobile Betting Apps: Enhance Your Gambling Experience
Mobile betting apps have become a popular choice for online gamblers in New Zealand as they make life so much easier while out and about.
In Auckland, known as the City of Sails of course, Kiwis love to be out and about on the sea, and while there is a lull in the fishing, the next best entertainment is playing at online casinos or placing a bet on the All Blacks to win their next rugby match.
With most betting sites offering dedicated apps for iOS and Android, these platforms resize perfectly to suit your screen size, whether you are using a smartphone or tablet. Additionally, if you prefer not to download sports betting apps, you can access your accounts directly through mobile browsers for instant access, although the app version normally provides a smoother, faster experience.
Features of Mobile Betting Apps
NZ Mobile betting apps are packed with features designed to make your betting experience enjoyable:
- Push Notifications: Get real-time alerts about promotions, bonuses, and odds updates, so you never miss an opportunity.
- Streamlined Payments: Quick and secure payment methods allow you to deposit and withdraw funds easily.
- Exclusive Offers: Many sports betting apps offer mobile-only promotions, including free bets and bonus boosts.
Feature | iOS | Android | Mobile Browser |
Availability | Available through the App Store | Available through Google Play or direct | No download required; accessible via URL |
User Experience | Optimized for iPhone/iPad; high speed | Smooth performance, customizable settings | May lack push notifications or special features |
Sports Selection | Full access to sports | Full access, similar to iOS | Limited |
Push Notifications | Yes, for promotions and updates | Yes, for promotions and updates | No |
Performance | Fast, optimized for Apple devices | Fast, optimized for Android devices | May vary depending on browser performance |
Other Gaming Options: Beyond Sports Betting
While sports betting is popular in New Zealand, you may want to consider looking at alternative gaming options such as online casinos, virtual sports, poker rooms or bingo.
Some online sportsbooks also offer these alternative gaming options, allowing you to switch between different types of betting without needing to sign up for separate platforms.
Popular games include online pokies, table games like blackjack and roulette, online poker, and virtual sports such as virtual football or horse racing.
Below is a comparison of sportsbooks offering various gaming options:
Sportsbook | Casino Games | Poker | Virtual Sports | Welcome Bonus | Features |
Supabet | Yes | Yes | Yes | 100% up to $200 | Live dealer games, large slots selection |
QuickWin | Yes | No | Yes | 50 Free Spins | Fast withdrawals, mobile-friendly |
RTBet | Yes | Yes | Yes | 200% first deposit | Live poker rooms, regular tournaments |
SlotsPalace | Yes | No | Yes | 150% up to $500 | Exclusive slot machines, free spins |
Malina Casino | Yes | Yes | Yes | 100% up to $300 | VIP program, loyalty rewards |
Banking: Payment Methods
When it comes to online betting, choosing the right payment methods is crucial for ensuring fast, and reliable transactions. Whether you're depositing funds to place a bet or withdrawing your winnings, it’s important to use secure payment options.
Many sportsbooks and gaming platforms offer a wide range of traditional payment methods, as well as the growing option of cryptocurrency if you want faster and more anonymous transactions.
Traditional Payment Options
Here’s a comparison of common payment methods for deposits and withdrawals, highlighting their speed, fees, and availability:
Payment Method | Deposit Speed | Withdrawal Speed | Fees | Availability |
Credit/Debit Cards | Instant | 2-5 Business Days | Minimal to None | Widely available in NZ |
Bank Transfers | 1-2 Business Days | 3-7 Business Days | Possible fees | Available in NZ |
E-Wallets ( Skrill, Neteller) | Instant | Instant to 24 hours | Low to None | Available in NZ |
Prepaid Cards | Instant | 2-5 Business Days | Minimal | Available in NZ |
Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrencies have become very popular for Kiwi bettors as they are easy to use, quick and no one gets to see your financial information, so they are more secure as well. Some of the popular cryptocurrencies used in New Zealand are listed below, however, most sportsbooks offer a lot more than those listed, so it's best to look at their payment options when you are ready to deposit.
- Bitcoin (BTC): The most widely accepted cryptocurrency, known for its security and fast transaction speeds.
- Ethereum (ETH): A versatile cryptocurrency with faster processing times than Bitcoin.
- Litecoin (LTC): A lighter and faster version of Bitcoin with low fees.
- Bitcoin Cash (BCH): A popular alternative with faster transaction times and low fees.
Many of the best betting sites offer bonuses for crypto deposits, to give you a further incentive to deposit with cryptocurrency.
Responsible Gaming
Responsible gaming is about ensuring that gambling remains a fun activity without negatively impacting other aspects of your life. It involves maintaining control over your gambling habits and recognizing when things are getting out of hand. Responsible gaming practices help you to ensure that you keep your gambling in control and don’t start betting the rent money!
Tips for Practicing Responsible Gaming
- Set a budget and stick to it: Never bet more than you can afford to lose.
- Establish time limits for betting sessions: Avoid spending excessive time gambling by setting specific time limits.
- Never gamble to recover losses: Accept that losses are a part of gambling and do not chase them.
- Avoid betting when under the influence of alcohol or stress: Emotional or impaired decision-making can lead to poor betting choices.
Tools and Features for Responsible Gaming
Many NZ betting sites offer tools designed to help you manage your gambling habits:
- Deposit and betting limits: Set daily, weekly, or monthly limits to control spending.
- Self-exclusion tools: Temporarily suspend or permanently close your account if you feel you need a break.
- Time-out options: Take a break from gambling by temporarily limiting access to your account.
- Reality checks: Receive reminders about the time you’ve spent betting to help you stay aware of your habits.
There are also many support organisations like Gamblers Anonymous and Gambling Helpline NZ. Most betting sites list details of these kinds of organisations on their responsible gambling pages.
FAQs: Common Questions About Online Sports Betting
Is sports betting legal in New Zealand?
Yes, sports betting is legal in New Zealand. The government regulates gambling through the Gambling Act 2003, and sports betting is allowed as long as it’s conducted through licensed operators, such as TAB NZ and international betting sites that accept New Zealand players.
Can I bet on sports using a mobile device?
Yes, many online sportsbooks offer dedicated mobile apps or mobile-friendly websites, allowing you to place bets and manage your account on smartphones or tablets.
What types of sports can I bet on in New Zealand?
You can bet on a wide range of sports in New Zealand, including rugby, cricket, football, tennis, basketball, and more. International sports and events are also available, giving you a variety of options to choose from.
How do I deposit funds into my betting account?
Deposits can be made through various payment methods, including credit/debit cards, bank transfers, e-wallets (like Skrill or Neteller), and cryptocurrencies. The specific options will depend on the sportsbook you choose.
Are there any bonuses for new bettors?
Yes, many sportsbooks offer welcome bonuses for new customers. These may include free bets, deposit matches, or risk-free betting offers.