Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Work smarter with a Pro licence Learn More

Art & Entertainment | Book Reviews | Education | Entertainment Video | Health | Lifestyle | Sport | Sport Video | Search

 

Don’t stirrup trouble this Melbourne Cup

Kiwis are known for their unbridled enthusiasm for the Melbourne Cup, and for ponying up a few bucks for sweepstakes.

Te Tari Taiwhenua, Department of Internal Affairs, wants to ensure you’re on track for running a winning sweepstake.

If you’re holding the reins, make sure your sweepstake goes off without a hitch by following these rules, straight from the horse’s mouth:

Hold your horses – prize money can’t exceed $500. Otherwise, you’ll need to apply for a licence.

No horsing around – all money raised must be returned as prizes.

Rein it in – firearms, liquor, tobacco and sexual services are all prohibited prizes.

Get off your high horse – the organiser can’t pocket a fee or profit in any way from holding a sweepstake.

DIA’s role in regulating gambling

We regulate casino and non-casino gambling in New Zealand to ensure Kiwis can enjoy safe and fair gambling that contributes to community wellbeing.

Sweepstakes, such as those run during the Melbourne Cup, are allowed under the Gambling Act 2003, but must comply with certain rules which are summarised above and can be found can be found in full here: www.dia.govt.nz/Services-Casino-and-Non-Casino-Gaming-Lottery-Game-Rules.

Don’t get saddled with a fine. Conducting illegal gambling can result in a fine of up to $20,000.

So, if you are thinking of running a sweepstake you can, but avoid any horse play by making sure you understand and comply with the rules.

ends

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading

Are you getting our free newsletter?

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.

© Scoop Media

 
 
 
Culture Headlines | Health Headlines | Education Headlines

 
 
 
 
 
 

LATEST HEADLINES

  • CULTURE
  • HEALTH
  • EDUCATION
 
 
  • Wellington
  • Christchurch
  • Auckland
 
 
 

Join Our Free Newsletter

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.