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In 2025, the online casino industry is evolving rapidly across both New Zealand and Australia. With shifting regulations, growing user bases, and expanding technology, staying informed has never been more important.
Together with Alex Hanbury, chief editor at WhereToSpin New Zealand, we’ll explore the major trends shaping the iGaming space this year — covering everything from legal changes to trusted casino platforms and emerging player habits.
Whether you’re a seasoned punter or just stepping into the world of online casinos, understanding where to play — and how to do it safely — is key. That’s where WhereToSpin comes in, helping Kiwis and Aussies alike make smarter choices by offering clear, unbiased reviews and expert insights tailored to the local market.
Before we dive in, it’s helpful to understand what iGaming actually means.
iGaming refers to any form of gambling conducted over the internet, including online casinos, sports betting, poker, bingo, and digital lottery platforms. It covers a wide range of gaming experiences, from spinning pokies and placing blackjack bets to wagering on live sports events. As users in New Zealand and Australia increasingly turn to digital-first entertainment, iGaming has become an integral part of the modern leisure landscape — spanning both regulated local offerings and popular offshore platforms with thousands of games optimised for mobile play.
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Online Casino Growth Across New Zealand and Australia
Online gambling is booming on both sides of the Tasman. In New Zealand, the online casino sector generated approximately USD 267.6 million in revenue by the end of 2024. That number is projected to grow to over USD 584 million by 2030, with a 14% annual growth rate. The surge is largely driven by mobile-first platforms and flexible payment options that suit modern players’ habits.
In Australia, the iGaming sector is even more substantial. Valued at USD 5.2 billion in 2024, it’s expected to grow to nearly USD 9 billion by 2033, with a 5.88% CAGR. Despite stricter regulations, Australians continue to engage with offshore platforms, drawn to their variety and convenience.
Understanding the Legal Landscape
New Zealand
Gambling in New Zealand is currently regulated under the Gambling Act 2003, which focuses primarily on land-based gaming. Online casinos, mostly operating offshore, have existed in a regulatory grey area. However, the government is set to launch a new licensing framework by 2026, issuing up to 15 licences to approved operators. This shift aims to improve consumer safety and transparency.
Australia
Australia’s online gambling environment is shaped by the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. It restricts the offering of most casino games to residents, yet enforcement is inconsistent. Sports betting and lotteries are permitted under licensed providers, but pokies and table games remain mostly accessed through international platforms.
WhereToSpin: A Trusted Player Resource
In a market as fast-moving and often confusing as online gambling, having a reliable source of information can make all the difference. That’s where WhereToSpin comes in — an independent platform created to guide players through the maze of casinos, bonuses, and evolving regulations.
Tailored specifically for New Zealand and Australian audiences, WhereToSpin delivers clear, experience-based reviews that help users separate hype from real value. It’s more than a listings site: it’s a trusted editorial resource built by a team that tests each casino firsthand, giving players the confidence to choose platforms that are safe, rewarding, and suited to their style of play.
WhereToSpin uses a rigorous, hands-on testing model, evaluating:
- Game variety (including pokies and live dealers)
- Bonus terms and wagering transparency
- Platform usability and mobile performance
- Licensing credentials and regulation
- Payment options, including support for crypto
Trusted Casino Platforms Recommended by WhereToSpin
Drawing from its hands-on testing model, WhereToSpin regularly reviews online casinos that demonstrate consistent performance, fair terms, and positive user feedback. Rather than focusing on hype or promotions, the platform spotlights operators that meet practical expectations for players in both New Zealand and Australia.
True Fortune Casino: A streamlined, accessible option featuring games from Rival and Betsoft. True Fortune is often appreciated for its no-frills user experience and dependable navigation.
Joo Casino: Known for its support of cryptocurrency and deep game selection, Joo Casino suits players who value modern features like fast payouts and responsive mobile functionality.
7BitCasino: With more than 7,000 games and a distinctive retro aesthetic, 7BitCasino appeals to players who seek variety and flexibility without compromising trust.
All three casinos have been independently tested by WhereToSpin’s editorial team — using real accounts, assessing customer service, and verifying withdrawal processes — to ensure that listed platforms deliver on what they promise.
Pokies, Bonuses, and Mobile Play
Slots, or pokies, are a staple of online gambling in both countries. WhereToSpin allows players to explore games based on:
- Return to Player (RTP)
- Volatility
- Bonus features and special mechanics
- Visual themes and jackpot structures
Popular pokies like Buffalo King, Book of Ra Deluxe, and Stampede Gold are regularly highlighted, and many titles are available in demo mode.
In today’s mobile-first world, casino platforms are increasingly designed for seamless mobile use. WhereToSpin reviews performance on both Android and iOS, ensuring that speed, layout, and functionality meet expectations across all devices.
Responsible Gambling and Safe Play
With increased accessibility comes the need for accountability. Top casinos — and WhereToSpin — advocate for responsible gaming by promoting:
- Personal deposit and time limits
- Self-exclusion tools
- Access to professional support services
The platform also educates players on how to interpret bonus terms, spot red flags, and understand fair gaming practices. Its editorial team remains committed to keeping the player experience safe and transparent.
What Players Need to Know in 2025
First and foremost, awareness is key. With new regulations on the horizon in New Zealand and ongoing legal complexity in Australia, players must understand their rights, risks, and responsibilities. Knowing which platforms operate legally — or at least transparently — and which ones prioritise user protection is more important than ever.
Equally, understanding how to evaluate a casino’s legitimacy, assess bonus terms, and manage gambling habits responsibly should be considered baseline knowledge for any online player. Tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion options are no longer optional — they’re essential.
WhereToSpin empowers players with this knowledge, offering detailed reviews, mobile usability reports, and educational content to help users play smarter. In 2025, with more casinos entering the market and more players going digital, informed decisions are what separate a safe experience from a risky one.
From True Fortune Casino’s simplicity to Joo Casino’s crypto appeal and 7BitCasino’s expansive game variety, there’s never been a better time to explore online gaming — provided you do so with the right guidance.
Whether you’re spinning casually or chasing high-stakes rewards, your best bets start with informed choices. And this year, WhereToSpin remains a name players in New Zealand and Australia can trust.
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