Iwi leaders are threatening legal action against the government's planned overhaul of New Zealand's gambling regulations, citing concerns about community harm and lack of Māori consultation.
Pou Tangata Leads Opposition
The Māori advocacy organisation Pou Tangata has demanded the government abandon its plans to auction 15 online casino licences by 2026. The proposed auction, authorised in late 2024, aims to liberalise New Zealand's online gambling marketplace, though specifics of the process remain unfinalised.
Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden, who is leading the reform of the Gambling Act 2003, states her goal is establishing a fair, regulated online gambling market that protects consumers from gambling harms and addiction.
Treaty Obligations at Centre of Dispute
The National Iwi Chairs Forum (NICF) contends the government has failed to consider Māori communities in planning these gambling reforms. Rāhui Papa, chair of Pou Tangata, has rejected the government's approach, arguing the liberalisation is proceeding without adequate Māori input and consideration of social consequences.
"These proposed changes primarily benefit offshore operators while ignoring the potential increase in gambling addiction across New Zealand," Papa stated. "Our communities already face significant social and economic challenges, making them particularly vulnerable to the risks of increased gambling accessibility."
Concerns for Rangatahi and Community Funding
A primary concern for Māori leaders is the threat to rangatahi (youth), as online gambling platforms are easily accessible and less regulated than traditional gambling. The NZCER 2024 Youth Gambling Review highlighted that gambling often serves as Māori youth's entry point to risky behaviours.
Additionally, Māori communities worry about losing vital community funding. Currently, domestic gambling operations like TAB and Lotto NZ reinvest profits into local initiatives. The new licensing system would primarily benefit offshore companies not required to fund community projects, potentially reducing support for essential services and development initiatives.
Legal Challenge Looms
Iwi leaders maintain the government's strategy violates Te Tiriti o Waitangi, which contains provisions for safeguarding Māori interests. Pou Tangata has called for an immediate halt to the auction process and a thorough legal analysis considering Treaty obligations.
If the government proceeds with its plans despite these concerns, Iwi leaders have indicated they will pursue legal remedies, highlighting the broader issue of inadequate consultation and potential social impact on Māori communities.
"We are prepared to take this to court if necessary," Papa warned. "The wellbeing of our people and the honour of Te Tiriti must be respected in all government policy decisions."