The popularity of esports gambling in New Zealand

New Zealand is a melting pot of online betting and offers a wide range of esports to bet on. Professional video games are becoming a go-to for punters. 

Bets are being placed on top-tier tournaments and leagues, with the greatest attention going to the biggest matches. Many believe esports betting is an easy mark due to the relatively under-developed handicapping situation on the games, but esports’ popularity with bookmakers suggests this isn’t the case. 

User-friendly websites

Kiwis have access to some of the most versatile and hassle-free websites for sports betting. Things are well-maintained without being overly restrictive. This has helped to attract a load of customers to a variety of sites. 

Betway is a Europe-based company that has been operational since 2006. It is licensed by the UK, Malta, Denmark, South Africa, and Belgium. Gamblers who are looking for the best NZ online casinos will definitely enjoy this one. It has built its reputation through impeccable customer care, reliability, and competitive odds. Its bonuses and offers attract customers but the company is courting New Zealand with extra bonuses.

Bet 365 is UK-based and has been going strong for 20 years. The reputed Bet365 swiftly claimed ground in the online betting scene and New Zealand enjoys its services. An enticing 100% bonus is offered to newcomers.

Other famous esports betting sites in New Zealand include:

• William Hill
• GG.Bet
• BWin
• 888Sport
• ArcaneBet
• Pinnacle
• Play Up

The most popular esports events

The Fortnite World Cup held in 2019 offered $30 million in prizes to players who qualified through online competitions. It took place in New York last time, with solo and duo categories. Fans are eagerly awaiting the next installment of the event.

The League of Legends World Championship, often simply called Worlds, takes place each fall. The 2021 installment will take place in Shanghai. The event often garners the largest audiences in esports.

The International, abbreviated to TI, boasts the largest prize pool in esports through its in-game crowdfunding. After some troubles, The International 2021’s dates have already been finalised.  

The Call of Duty League is the competitive arm of the Call of Duty franchise. The league is the only major esports competition in Call of Duty, something that frustrates longtime fans of the franchise..

The legal framework

The eGambling arena of the country is in its nascent stage yet players can bet on the largest video games leagues around the world. The industry has built up massive infrastructure around esports betting in very little time. 

Gaming is regulated by the Department of Internal Affairs. This includes everything including esports betting, casino gaming, poker, greyhound, and horse racing, all of which are legal to bet on for adults. 

There is no ban on offshore online bookmakers which allows players to bet on any website licensed site. The legal aspect is wonderfully lenient, but the Gambling Act bars operators from offering “remote interactive gambling” services or any product that can allow off-site betting using communication devices like computers and smartphones. This is limited to businesses licensed in New Zealand.

Payment methods

New Zealand can sustain its esports market as it offers trustworthy and convenient transactions through all the following payment methods:

• Credit and debit cards
• Web wallets
• Instant banking
• Prepaid cash cards
• Bank transfers
• Bitcoin

New Zealand brings out the best of the online gambling industry in the most effective way possible, with relaxed legal reforms and immaculate customer services. It has built a reputation with the potential to compete globally. The portals are easy to navigate and payment options vary. The calendar is packed with events that ensure there is no lull in activity. New Zealand is a role model of how to manage and succeed in the business of gambling