Gamblers' spending rises 9 per cent to exceed $2bn

Total spending by gamblers in New Zealand rose by 9 per cent to $2.039 billion in the 2003-04 year, according to figures issued by the Internal Affairs Department yesterday.

The figures, which the department describes as gamblers' spending/losses, show the biggest rise was for Lotteries Commission products - up 18 per cent to $282 million.

Of the other forms of gambling, spending on gaming machines (pokies) in pubs and clubs rose 10 per cent to $1.035 billion, casinos were up 6 per cent to $484 million, and racing and sports betting was up 2.1 per cent to $239 million - the smallest rise.

The department's gaming, racing and censorship policy manager, John Markland, said the effects of the new Gambling Act, passed in September 2003 and not fully in force until July, would not be fully reflected in the figures until the end of the 2004-05 year.

"However, the growth in spending on gaming machines seems to be slowing."

He said the key objectives of the new act were to control the growth of gambling, prevent and limit the harm caused by gambling, limit opportunities for crime and dishonesty, and ensure gambling proceeds benefited the community.

The act introduced stricter controls, including:

* A ban on new casinos and more gambling activities in existing casinos.

* Reductions in the number of non-casino gaming machines allowed in many pubs and clubs.

* Community involvement in decisions on the provision of gambling.

* More in-depth checking of individuals, and tougher auditing and reporting requirements, to ensure money intended for the community gets there.

- NZPA