In a bold and controversial move, Christchurch Casino is set to dive into the world of online gambling.
The casino launched an offshore Malta-based platform under the subsidiary “Christchurchcasino.com Limited,” in partnership with a licensed international gaming company White Hat Gaming.
This audacious step has sparked debates and discussions in New Zealand’s gambling landscape.
Partnering with White Hat Gaming
White Hat Gaming, a renowned iGaming platform provider, has entered the New Zealand market by launching the online platform for Christchurch Casino at www.christchurchcasino.com.
White Hat Gaming will operate the online casino on behalf of Christchurch Casino, ensuring a reliable and engaging platform. Their white-label solution, featuring their proprietary PAM, offers adaptability and scalability.
The service includes CRM marketing assistance, a proprietary cashier system, multiple payment methods, 24/7 customer support, and player protection tools.
Features of the casino:
Users will have access to over 3,000 games, including slots, table games, live dealer sessions, Slingo, jackpots, and instant win games, sourced from top developers.
Phillip Gelvan, CEO of White Hat Gaming, expressed his delight in partnering with Christchurch Casino, emphasizing their commitment to a responsible and enjoyable user experience.
Keith O’Loughlin, Exec Chairman at www.ChristchurchCasino.com Limited, highlighted the convenience of accessing quality services and entertainment under the Christchurch Casino brand from desktop and mobile devices. He emphasized White Hat Gaming’s role in delivering a best-in-class online casino while maintaining a core focus on responsible gambling and host responsibility.
Good news for Affiliates
Affiliates looking to promote this online platform can seize this opportunity through their affiliate program hosted at cccaffiliates.com.
By joining this program, affiliates can tap into a trusted and established brand in the New Zealand gambling market. With a diverse array of games and a strong commitment to responsible gambling, this partnership offers affiliates the chance to provide a top-notch online casino experience to their audience. It’s a win-win opportunity for affiliates and players alike.”
The Surge in Online Gambling
Online gambling is on the rise, and experts are sounding the alarm about individuals’ heightened risks when they can gamble around the clock in secrecy.
Presently, New Zealand allows online gambling through only two authorized providers, namely, Lotto NZ and the TAB.
However, changes in legislation are on the horizon, potentially allowing local online gambling platforms. These legislative changes are currently awaiting Cabinet approval, anticipated before year-end.
Implications of Current Legislation
Existing legislation would limit CC subsidiary from advertising its services within New Zealand. Notably, SkyCity made history in 2019 as the first New Zealand casino operator to launch an online casino based in Malta.
Criticism and Concerns
Criticism has emerged regarding Christchurch Casino’s offshore venture. Bridgitte Thornley, national director of Christchurch-based Problem Gambling Foundation Services, expressed disappointment. She raised concerns about the casino’s use of “Christchurch casino” in the domain name, which might mislead users into thinking it’s a locally governed site. However, it operates beyond New Zealand’s regulatory reach.
The Growing Issue of Online Gambling
The issue of online gambling’s growing problem, affecting an increasing number of people, is echoed by Maria Bellringer, an associate professor at the Auckland University of Technology’s gambling and addictions research centre. She emphasizes the potential harm of online gambling, which is available 24/7, often in secret, with a lack of supervision to prevent excessive or harmful gambling.
Financial Implications
This move is part of a larger picture where Kiwi gamblers spend up to $400 million annually on unregulated overseas websites, with a significant portion going to New Zealand casinos.
While the casino assures robust responsible gambling safeguards and a commitment to pay GST on gambling by New Zealand residents, the true impact of this venture on New Zealand’s gambling landscape remains to be seen.
Christchurch Casino’s leap into offshore online gambling promises to reshape the New Zealand gambling landscape. However, it has also ignited debates and concerns about its potential consequences and the need for comprehensive regulatory measures.
Source:
- https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/industries/129995962/christchurch-casino-to-bypass-nz-rules-by-launching-online-gambling-platform-in-malta