A Christchurch man and his company have been charged with
multiple illegal gambling offences, following an
investigation by Te Tari Taiwhenua, Department of Internal
Affairs (DIA).

The defendants, who appeared in
Christchurch District Court this afternoon, have been
charged with conducting illegal gambling, promoting illegal
gambling, and making a pecuniary gain from illegal gambling
under the Gambling Act 2003 (the Act).

It is alleged
the defendants personally benefitted from selling illegal
lotteries via online platforms with prizes like high value
cars, boats, caravans, cash and a freehold house on offer.
In a little over a year, the illegal lottery allegedly
generated $11,125,466.65, making it the largest illegal
lottery ever identified in New Zealand.

Under the Act,
gambling with prizes that exceed $5,000 can only be
conducted by a not-for-profit society for authorised
purposes and requires a class 3 gambling licence to ensure
the integrity of the operation and protection of
participants.

Following a referral from DIA, the New
Zealand Police have also taken proceedings in the High Court
against the defendants under the Criminal Proceeds
(Recovery) Act 2009.

“Our strict licensing
requirements are there for a reason. We will not hesitate to
respond firmly when we see instances of illegal gambling
such as unlicensed online lotteries.” Said Vicki Scott,
Director Gambling, Department of Internal
Affairs.

“We have no tolerance for those who seek to
profit by bypassing the
rules.”

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