SkyCity Implements Mandatory Carded Play to Enhance Responsible Gambling Measures

SkyCity Enhances Responsible Gambling with Mandatory Carded Play

SkyCity Entertainment Group has taken a decisive step to promote responsible gambling and strengthen anti-money laundering practices by introducing mandatory carded play across its venues. This initiative aims to safeguard both the company and its patrons by limiting risky gambling behaviors.

Strengthening Consumer Protections in New Zealand

Despite some global resistance from gambling operators, SkyCity is moving forward with carded play at a time when New Zealand is preparing to launch up to 15 licensed online casinos. This carded system requires players to complete a swift registration process, either online or in person, which involves providing a valid photo ID.

Upon registering, customers receive a card that grants access to SkyCity’s loyalty program and helps monitor for suspicious activities such as money laundering. Alongside these security benefits, the card system introduces a range of consumer protection tools including enforced breaks and limitations on gambling sessions that apply on a daily and weekly basis. These new safeguards were initially implemented at SkyCity locations in Queenstown and Hamilton.

Callum Mallett, SkyCity’s Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the advantages of this measure, stating that the carded play system equips the company with enhanced means to support customers, enabling earlier interventions when necessary, and ensuring that gaming remains a safe and enjoyable experience. He emphasized the firm’s leadership in fostering a safer and more sustainable gaming environment in New Zealand.

Contrasting Approaches to Carded Play in New Zealand and Australia

Mallett affirmed the company’s dedication to responsible gaming and described the carded play as a significant advancement over previous methods. The system represents a proactive approach to consumer protection designed to prevent harm.

In contrast, the neighboring Australian gambling industry has largely rejected carded play, raising concerns that it unfairly stigmatizes gamblers and could be exploited by criminals for money laundering. Australia’s experience includes a halted cashless card pilot program in Tasmania and stalled progress in New South Wales, with critics attributing the limited adoption to governmental inaction.