A man from Ōtautahi/Christchurch, along with his company, have been charged over what's been labelled as the biggest illegal lottery ever discovered in Aotearoa.
An investigation by Te Tari Taiwhenua Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) found the man and his company allegedly made $11,125,500 in a little more than one year.
It's alleged they sold illicit lotteries online to people in New Zealand, offering prizes such as cash, expensive cars and boats, and even a freehold house.
The man and his company were charged with multiple illegal gambling offences at the Christchurch District Court on Thursday.
Vicki Scott, DIA's director of gambling, said strict gambling licensing requirements exist for a reason.
"We will not hesitate to respond firmly when we see instances of illegal gambling such as unlicensed online lotteries," said Scott.
"We have no tolerance for those who seek to profit by bypassing the rules."
Under the Gambling Act (2003), only authorised not-for-profit organisations can offer gambling services with prizes valued over $5000, for specific purposes. They also need a Class 3 gambling licence.
Police have also filed proceedings against the man and his company in the High Court, after a referral from the DIA.
The man and his company have been charged with conducting illegal gambling, promoting illegal gambling, and making a pecuniary gain from illegal gambling.
