Four social media influencers have been fined for promoting offshore gambling websites to a New Zealand audience. Multiple fines of $5,000 were issued by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) to Millie Elder-Holmes, Calen Morris, Billie Whaanga, and Tuhira Wana.

It has been confirmed that these fines were linked to the promotion of Spinbet, a gambling organisation based in Curaçao. Under New Zealand law, it is illegal for overseas gambling sites to advertise to people in the country, including through social media channels.

Vicki Scott, the Director of Gambling for the DIA’s Regulatory Services, explained that authority has been placed on the department to request social media platforms to remove accounts that go against the rules. Scott stated that anyone who is found guilty of breaking the law could face infringement fines of $5,000 per breach, or if convicted, fines could be up to $10,000.

Warnings Ignored by Spinbet

Spinbet had already been warned by the DIA in April about targeting New Zealand audiences. 

The company continued to run giveaways and promotions to attract players despite this warning. These giveaways often involved New Zealand products, some were exclusive to people living in New Zealand.

As a result of this, Spinbet  received 12 infringement notices in August, summing up to $60,000 in penalties. This came after Millie Elder-Holmes had previously been fined $5,000 in May for promoting similar online gambling.

“Once an account comes to our attention, either through a complaint or our own investigations, it is placed on our watchlist and monitored regularly for any further breaches,” said Scott.

More Influencers Under Investigation

The report shows that the four influencers fined this week are not the only ones in trouble. The DIA confirmed that eight other social media influencers are currently under investigation for promoting offshore gambling content.

One of those fined said he wanted to move forward positively and would rather not be defined by mistakes he made during his period of gambling addiction. The other two influencers involved have been contacted for their comments but they are yet to respond.

The DIA has declared that the promotion of offshore gambling is being monitored, and he stated that repeated breaches will not be overlooked.

Government Moves Toward New Gambling Laws

The New Zealand Government has started taking steps to strengthen its gambling regulations. A new piece of legislation is currently being reviewed by the Select Committee. The bill, the Online Casino Gambling Bill, is expected to go through its second reading soon.

If the bill is passed, it will introduce clearer regulations for online casinos. Hence, it will reduce the risks associated with offshore gambling platforms that currently operate outside New Zealand’s laws.

Scott stated that the DIA is committed to protecting New Zealanders from illegal gambling promotions and ensuring that those who break the law face the consequences.