DIA Oversight and Regulatory Powers

Published: 28 October 2026 • By: The New Lawyer Editorial Team • Jurisdiction: New Zealand (Gambling Act 2003)

The Department of Internal Affairs Te Tari Taiwhenua (DIA) exercises wide inspection and supervisory powers under the Gambling Act 2003. Together with the Gambling Commission, it ensures that gaming venues and casino operators comply strictly with statutory conditions.

Statutory Powers of the Gambling Inspectorate

Part 4 of the Gambling Act 2003 appoints Gambling Inspectors equipped with comprehensive inspection powers:

  • Unannounced Entry: Under Section 330, an inspector may at any reasonable time enter any licensed gaming venue or casino without prior notice to observe operations.
  • Examination of Accounts & Records: Section 333 empowers inspectors to inspect, examine, and copy any financial books, accounts, computer logs, or surveillance recordings.
  • Equipment Testing: Authority to seize, examine, and test any electronic gaming machine, random number generator, or electronic monitoring terminal suspected of irregularity.
  • Direction of Immediate Corrective Action: Power to order the immediate shutdown of non-compliant gaming terminals or venue facilities.
New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs executive offices
The Secretary for Internal Affairs holds wide-ranging inspection and licensing powers under the Gambling Act.

The Judicial Role of the Gambling Commission

The Gambling Commission is an independent statutory body established under Division 3 of Part 4 of the Act. Key functions include:

  • Casino Licensing Decisions: Deciding on all applications for the renewal, variation, or transfer of casino venue and operator licences.
  • Appellate Jurisdiction: Hearing appeals lodged by operators against decisions made by the Secretary for Internal Affairs (such as the refusal, suspension, or cancellation of a Class 4 licence).
  • Inquiry Powers: The Commission possesses the powers of a Commission of Inquiry under the Commissions of Inquiry Act 1908 to summon witnesses, administer oaths, and compel evidence.
An empty independent hearing room with timber desks and microphones, no logos or readable text
The Gambling Commission has the powers of a commission of inquiry to summon witnesses and compel evidence.