New Zealand has a new Racing Minister and his “Number one priority” is to fight offshore online gambling sites he says are siphoning money out of the country’s racing industry.
Nathan Guy told the annual meeting of the New Zealand Racing Board That unsanctioned online gambling sites represent a “complex” problem that has “significant implications for racing and sport in New Zealand.”
Guy said betting was “central” to racing and sport in that it “helps build public interest, generates excitement and keeps patrons coming back.” Without the funding generated via betting, “there would, in all likelihood, cease to be a racing industry in New Zealand.”
Guy said he has asked his officials to set up an Offshore Betting Working Group—similar to one set up by Australia—to unlicensed online operators. The group will consult with gambling industry figures and develop recommendations. A report is expected by late 2015.
