Guide to Sports Betting Sites for NZ Punters

Most punters will be aware of the strict legislation that has been placing on the betting industry in New Zealand. All betting outlets, on and offline, are administered by the Department of Internal Affairs and the New Zealand Racing Board, and thus options are limited.

While there are over 600 TAB outlets across the country, most punters prefer to place wagers from the comfort of their home and enjoy online sports betting sites. However, there is only one authorized online sportsbook in the country, which can be limiting; so many Kiwi punters are using offshore sportsbooks.

Fortunately for punters in New Zealand, at this point there is no legislature preventing them from doing so, and there is no fine or penalty imposed.

Benefits of Online Sports Betting

Whether you are a novice or a veteran when it comes to sports betting, there are a variety of benefits when it comes to punting online. Most websites offer sign up bonuses and rewards for regular customers, which you definitely won’t get when visiting a traditional TAB outlet. With such a wide variety of offshore sportsbooks accepting wagers from Kiwi punters, the betting market is blown wide open. Wagers can be placed on virtually any professional sport imaginable, and the action doesn’t stop there. Many sports betting sites even offer wagers on politics, popular fictional television shows and prestigious award ceremonies such as the Golden Globes and the Academy Awards. All this can be taken advantage of by punters in NZ without ever having to step a foot out of home.

What to Look for

A simple search for sports betting sites will yield a massive array of options to choose from. However, not all sports betting sites are created equal, and as such there are a few things that punters should look out for when making a decision.

The world of online sports betting is extremely competitive, therefore many sports betting sites offer sign up or welcome bonuses to first time users. Claiming these rewards is simple and all a punter has to do is create an account and make their first deposit. Most online sportsbooks will match this initial deposit, effectively doubling the amount, up to a certain limit.

Take a look at the range of betting markets before deciding on a sportsbook, and make sure your favourite sports are listed and that a wide variety of wagers are offered. When it comes to deposit and withdrawal options, you want to utilize an online sportsbook that has a wide range of options, and quick turn-around times for fast access to your winnings.

Customer service and assistance is an often overlooked part of sports betting sites, however punters will want someone to get back to them in a timeous manner if they have any questions or problems. Look out for sites that offer a live 24/7 chat service, or at the very least a 24/7 telephone help desk and email queries.

Placing Bets

Once punters have decided on a sportsbook most suited to them, it’s time to place the first wagers. Take a look at the variety of sports betting in NZ on offer and dip a toe in with a small wager. The best advice is to start low and slow and work your way up once you’ve gained some much needed player confidence. If there is anything you’re uncertain of on the site, contact the customer service department and as they are there to get punters back on track.