New Zealand's Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) has intensified its enforcement against unlawful gambling promotion, penalising both influencers and an offshore operator for breaching advertising rules.
Four social media figures were fined a total of NZ$65,000, with Millie Elder-Holmes receiving the highest penalty of NZ$30,000 for repeated promotions of foreign casino sites.
Calen Morris, Billy Whaanga and Tuhira Wana were also sanctioned, with fines ranging between NZ$15,000 and NZ$20,000.
In addition, offshore casino platform Spinbet, licensed in Curacao, was ordered to pay NZ$60,000 for 12 violations.
The DIA confirmed that over 40 influencers are now under active surveillance as part of its gambling watchlist, reflecting mounting concerns around advertising on social media.
The department noted that complaints about gambling promotions have doubled over the past two years with 75 cases already recorded in 2025.
The crackdown comes as the Government prepares to regulate online casinos from 2026, when 15 licenses will be made available.
The scheme is projected to raise up to NZ$200m, although Maori health advocates have urged lawmakers to exclude overseas operators, mentioning the risks posed to vulnerable communities.
Under the current law, each breach carries a penalty of NZ$5,000 but higher sanctions can be applied through court proceedings. Officials also cautioned that persistent offenders could face account suspensions or bans.
{{QUOTE}}The crackdown comes as the Government prepares to regulate online casinos from 2026, when 15 licenses will be made available{{/QUOTE}
