Entain has entered New Zealand’s emerging online casino sector with the soft launch of BlackRush Casino, positioning the brand ahead of the country’s planned regulated iGaming market in 2027.
The launch gives Entain an early presence in a market that the company estimates could generate around £600m in annual gambling revenue, with the operator planning to pursue up to three online casino licences.
BlackRush Joins Entain’s New Zealand Line-Up
BlackRush has appeared on the New Zealand market ahead of the country’s new online casino licensing framework. The brand is currently operating under Entain’s ElectraWorks Gibraltar licence and can be accessed using a New Zealand VPN.
The casino appears to run on a separate platform from Entain’s wider global infrastructure, alongside FoxySpins, another casino brand targeting New Zealand players.
Both brands would complement Entain’s existing local betting operations, including betcha and TAB. Entain has operated New Zealand’s sports betting business through its long-standing strategic partnership with TAB NZ.
Entain Eyes Three Casino Licences
The soft launch comes as New Zealand prepares to allocate 15 online casino approvals. The auction process is scheduled to open on 29 September, after which successful bidders will be able to apply for licences.
Each licence will initially be valid for three years, with a possible five-year renewal. The regulated market is expected to launch in 2027, although authorities have yet to confirm a specific launch date.
Operators will be able to hold a maximum of three licences, and Entain CEO Stella David has previously confirmed that the company intends to pursue all three.
David has highlighted the potential to combine Entain’s existing sports betting customer base with its future casino brands, giving the group an opportunity to cross-sell between the two verticals.
Entain’s Australia and New Zealand division, led by CEO Andrew Vouris, is already preparing for the market and working with local partners.
Entain Sees £600m Annual Market Opportunity
David estimates that New Zealand represents an annual gambling opportunity of around £600m. Entain currently generates approximately £200m from the country and expects online casino to potentially push that figure above £300m.
The company is not the only major operator preparing for the new market. SkyCity, Super Group, DigiPlus, Stake and Dabble have also reportedly shown interest in securing licences.
With the licensing process now approaching, Entain’s BlackRush launch gives the group an early foothold while it prepares for the full regulated rollout.