The Online Casino Bill: What’s at Stake for Aotearoa | New Zealand

Join us for a hybrid LEANZ event hosted by Russell McVeagh in Auckland and online via Zoom, featuring Dr Maria Bellringer and RNZ journalist Guyon Espiner. Together, they'll unpack the rapid rise of online gambling in Aotearoa New Zealand and explore the implications of the Online Casino Gambling Bill.

Online gambling is the fastest-growing form of gambling, one which effectively places "a slot machine in your pocket with direct access to your bank account". With New Zealand already among the highest per capita gambling losses globally, the government plans to regulate offshore casino platforms by the end of this year. What will this mean for public health, politics, and policy in Aotearoa?

This seminar is on Wednesday 24th September, at Russell McVeagh Auckland (Vero Centre, Level 30, 48 Shortland Street) and on Zoom. Doors open at 5:30pm. The seminar proper will begin at 6:00pm, finishing at 7:00pm, including some time for questions from attendees. There will be time for networking following the event.

Summary of the session:

Dr Maria Bellringer and Guyon Espiner will unpack the rapid rise of online gambling in New Zealand and explore the implications of the proposed Online Casino Gambling Bill. Together they will bring both a research-based and investigative perspective, followed by audience Q&A.

• Dr Maria Bellringer is Director of the Gambling and Addictions Research Centre (GARC) at AUT. She has led gambling-related research since 2002, including her current Ministry of Health–funded study on online gambling harm. Maria also has a background in counselling and from 2009–2011 led the national gambling helpline.

• Guyon Espiner is a senior investigative journalist with RNZ’s In Depth team. Over a 30-year career in print, television and radio, he has produced major investigations into online gambling, alcohol, and drug policy. He is the author of The Drinking Game and presenter of the multi-media series 30 with Guyon Espiner.

This is a timely opportunity to hear from two of New Zealand’s leading voices on gambling, health, and policy. Come along in person or online to learn, ask questions, and connect with others working at the intersection of law, economics, and public health.

Register now to secure your spot

Details for online attendance:Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 854 7264 3209

Passcode: 293789

The Zoom meeting will be open from 5:30pm.

Event Venue

Russel McVeagh, 48 Shortland Street, Auckland, New Zealand