Lottery tickets are legal in New Zealand under the Gambling Act 2003, which regulates all forms of gambling including lotteries throughout the country. Lotto NZ, established in 1987 as the New Zealand Lotteries Commission, promotes, organises, and conducts New Zealand lotteries, makes rules regulating the conduct and operation of those lotteries, and advises the Minister of Internal Affairs on matters relating to lotteries (2). The organization operates as an autonomous Crown entity under the Crown Entities Act 2004 and Gambling Act 2003.
All operators of lottery games must comply with the Lottery Game Rules established under the Gambling Act (1). Lotteries are classified as class 1, class 2, or class 3 gambling depending on the level of money involved, with each classification subject to different regulatory requirements. Every organiser must clearly indicate to all participants the rules and requirements by which the lottery will be played, and tickets must be the only valid basis for both participating in and winning a lottery.
"Lotto NZ promotes, organises, and conducts New Zealand lotteries, makes rules regulating the conduct and operation of those lotteries, and advises the Minister of Internal Affairs on matters relating to lotteries. All net profits are transferred to the New Zealand Lottery Grants Board."
The Gambling Act requires that prizes in lotteries must be worth at least 20 percent of the lottery's gross potential income (1). All net profits from Lotto NZ are transferred to the New Zealand Lottery Grants Board that distributes them to sporting and cultural agencies and other community recipients. The Department of Internal Affairs serves as the primary regulator for gambling activities, ensuring that lotteries operate in a professional, safe and responsible manner while minimizing risks of problem gambling and underage gambling.
Source:
https://www.dia.govt.nz/diawebsite.nsf/wpg_URL/Services-Casino-and-Non-Casino-Gaming-Lottery-Game-Rules
https://www.treasury.govt.nz/information-and-services/commercial-portfolio-and-advice/commercial-portfolio/new-zealand-lotteries-commission
Last updated: 16-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
