Best Sports betting sites in New Zealand
Sports betting is one of the most widespread types of gambling and involves placing a wager, or bet, on the outcome of a particular sporting event. Its origins date back hundreds of years and it is difficult to trace exactly where and when sports betting started. No one can say for certain how long sports betting has taken place, but it can be assumed that for as long as there have been results of sporting events, there has also been wagering on those results. Evidence suggests that sports betting can be traced as far back as Ancient Greece, but some believe there’s evidence to suggest it goes back even farther.
In 2014, BitStarz made its entrance into the online gambling world. Since then, it has consistently upheld its popularity, becoming a hub for crypto players globally.
LeoVegas is an established Swedish company that offers both online casino and sports betting services. While their name may suggest a focus on casinos, they have developed into a reputable NZ bookmaker as well.
Mr. Green is a sleek sports book offering a strong mobile app that's particularly appealing for live sports betting enthusiasts.
Initially known as OmniBet, TonyBet underwent a significant transformation when professional poker player Tony G acquired the site, resulting in its rebranding as TonyBet.
In 2005, Betfair launched its operations in Australia, and it quickly became popular due to its betting exchange model, which allows users to bet against each other on various sports and events.
Neds, founded in 2017 by Australian bookmaker Dean Shannon, has become a popular online betting platform. Neds is currently Entain PLC, headquartered in Bowen Hills, Queensland.
Sportsbet is a prominent online betting platform in Australia and a widely used international bookmaker in New Zealand, serving over 1.25 million customers.
Guts may not be a household name in New Zealand just yet, but it's quickly becoming one of our favourite sports betting websites.
Conquestador, a world-class gambling site, has gained a reputation as a top-notch platform primarily focused on casino games.
The Royal Panda Sportsbook is a recently established betting site in New Zealand, having launched in 2020.
BetVictor, one of the longest-standing betting operators in the UK, has successfully expanded its polished product to New Zealand, providing Kiwi customers with an exceptional betting experience tailored to their preferences.
Sportsbet.io covers a diverse range of betting markets, offering users the opportunity to place wagers on various sports and events.
In recent years, an increasing number of New Zealanders have been veering away from the TAB NZ, the country's long-standing sports betting organization.
Bet365, a prominent online betting platform, was established in 2000 and has gained recognition as a leading name in the industry.
RIZK NZ has become a popular choice among online casino enthusiasts, despite discontinuing its sportsbook in 2021.
22bet is a global bookmaker that offers sports betting and online casino services to players from various countries, including New Zealand.
Founded by William Hill in 1934, the company underwent various changes in ownership. It was successively acquired by Sears Holdings in 1971, Grand Metropolitan in 1988, and Brent Walker in 1989.
Betway is a notable option that can serve as an alternative or complement to your current sportsbook accounts. With a wide range of daily sports markets exceeding 30,000 and a selection of over 400 casino games, Betway caters to the preferences of diverse individuals from New Zealand.
Ladbrokes NZ has established itself as one of the oldest and most reputable bookmakers in the world. With a rich history dating back to 1886, Ladbrokes has garnered a loyal following in Australia and the UK.
888sport, founded in 2008 and headquartered in Gibraltar, is a popular online sports betting platform. With over one million registered players, they offer a wide range of unique betting events on a daily basis.
Betstar is a popular online sports betting platform, packed full of great features for users to enjoy.
Today, sports betting has become a favourite pastime for millions of sports fans worldwide, and generates staggering revenues. The online world has brought with it the emergence of online bookmakers, who make betting on your favourite sport more convenient than ever, eliminating the need to even leave the comfort of your own home.
Over the past two decades, numerous traditional brick and mortar bookmakers have migrated online, creating a huge range of specialized betting websites to select from. By utilising these online betting sites, sports enthusiasts can place bets on a staggering variety of sports, ranging from popular team sports like football and basketball to punters’ favourites like greyhound or horse racing.
Some regions have criminalized such activities, deeming them unlawful. Yet, in most countries, sports betting is considered a lawful form of gambling, which is regulated and authorised by specialised commissions.
At the most basic level, sports betting involves placing a monetary stake on a sports event’s result with the intention of creating additional profits by making accurate predictions on the outcome. Winning results in a pay-out, whilst losing results in the loss of the wagered money. However, this is only the short answer to the question “What is sports betting?”. There are numerous other factors that make up the complete answer. Continue reading to learn some more information about the world of sports betting.
Always remember to practice responsible gambling by exercising control over your betting activity and spending. Do not underestimate the risk of losing money, as even experienced bettors lose bets from time to time. Betting on your favourite team or athlete should be enjoyable, and should not interfere with your personal or professional life. If you or someone you know has been affected by a gambling addiction, there’s no shame in taking the necessary steps to reach out and get help.
The Bookmaker
A bookmaker, also referred to as a “betting agency” or “sportsbook,” is a person or company that offers sports betting services at predetermined odds. Essentially, the bookmaker is who bettors turn to in order to make their bets and predictions about the outcome of a sports event. Typically, bookmakers focus on professional sports like football or horse racing.
Bookmakers also provide odds for sports events. The bookmaker’s profits are mostly derived from the markets they offer, rather than the odds themselves. For example, some popular markets for football include Winner (where you predict the winning team), First Goal Scorer, Half-Time Result, and Correct Score. In addition, bettors can make multiple correct predictions and place bets on multiple selections, known as Accumulators or Parleys, which can result in greater pay-outs if all their predictions are correct.
It’s natural for bookmakers to aim at making profits as well. Since they cannot control the outcome of the game, they could face significant losses if a large number of punters make accurate predictions about an outcome. To minimize their losses, bookmakers run their businesses using specific methods that guarantee they make a profit regardless of the event’s result. The odds are set in such a way that the bookmakers can collect commissions on all the bets that are placed, ensuring a balanced book. This allows them to pay out roughly the same amount, regardless of the outcome.
Placing a bet on your favourite team or athlete has become incredibly easy and convenient in today’s hyper-connected world. As mentioned earlier, plenty of established bookmakers have transitioned to the online sports betting landscape, and betting can now be done on their websites or apps. Getting started is easy, as all you have to do is sign up for an account on one of these bookmakers’ sites. Many online bookmakers provide detailed explanations of betting terms and offer useful tips to new punters, making it even more convenient.
As mobile technology has become more widespread, you can even place bets on the go using your smartphones and tablets. Many bookmakers provide handy mobile apps, which make betting more convenient than ever. Bettors can receive notifications about their wagers straight from the app.
Online betting offers a range of benefits, such as easy to use, user-friendly interfaces and heavily encrypted security measures that are put in place to protect bettors’ financial and personal details. Registered punters can also take advantage of various promotional offers and bonuses, increasing their chances of winning and their shot at a bigger pay-out. The most reputable online bookmakers are known for their generosity in rewarding regular punters with free bets and special promotions.
An added benefit of online sports betting is the sheer range of options available. Online bookmakers’ options cover all of the world’s major sports leagues including the NFL, NBA, NHL, ATP, WTA, MLB, and the UEFA Champions League, as well as individual sports like boxing, snooker, pool, darts, and Formula 1 racing.
The In-Play feature offered by many online bookmakers is particularly popular, allowing punters to place bets on events that are already in progress, which can increase the chances of making accurate wagers. Some online bookmakers even offer the option to bet while watching a live stream on their site.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that many online betting providers offer highly competitive odds, which can greatly benefit more experienced punters. The higher the odds, the greater the potential pay-out on a successful bet. Additionally, punters can register with multiple online bookmakers to compare the odds offered to increase their chances of finding the best possible deal.
What are the odds?
Let’s take a closer look at the betting term “odds”. Essentially, the potential pay-out you could receive from a bet is calculated by multiplying your bet with the odds of winning. As such, odds are closely tied to your chances of winning, and many bettors refer to odds as the “price” of a wager.
There are three types of odds used in sports betting: Odds On, Odds Against, and Even Odds. Odds On means that your potential winnings will be lower than your bet, while Odds Against means that your profits will be greater than your bet. Even Odds means your winnings will be equal to your bet, typically resulting in neither a profit nor a loss. The value of a wager depends on the odds that it offers, so comparing odds from different bookmakers is a good idea for both novice and veteran bettors.
Remember that higher odds increase your chances of winning, but they also mean that the potential pay-out from a winning bet will be smaller. Conversely, lower odds make it harder to win, but if you do, your pay-out will be significantly larger.
It’s also important to note that there are three different formats used to express odds in sports betting. The most common format is the Decimal format, written, for example, as 2.00 or 1.50. This format is easy to use and has become the standard format in the industry.
The Fractional format is commonly used in the United Kingdom and uses fractions to express odds, e.g., 1/1, 4/6, 7/4, etc. Finally, in the United States, bookmakers use the American format or Moneyline, which can be positive or negative, such as +200 or -150.
Most common types of bets
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular types of bets. Although there are numerous types of bets out there, we’re going to concentrate on several of the most commonly used ones: win bets, handicaps, parlays, futures, and in-play bets.
The Win Bet is the simplest type of bet. With this bet, punters place a wager on the team or athlete they believe will win the game. The odds are determined based on the likelihood of their bet winning. This is as simple as it gets, and there are many other betting options to choose from.
Handicaps, also known as straight bets in the US, are highly favoured among American football fans. These bets bear a resemblance to the Win Bet, but there’s an important difference. The bettor chooses which team they believe will win, but a Point Spread is introduced to even out the odds for both teams. The bettor can either choose the favourite to win or root for the underdog.
In contrast, parlays involve making two or more bet selections. A parlay with two picks is known as a “Double,” while one with three picks is known as a “Treble.” Punters usually pick up to 14 or more selections. The odds are adjusted according to the number of bets grouped together. Parlays are considered risky since bettors must predict every selection correctly to secure a pay-out.
Outrights, also known as Futures, are placed on who will be the winner of a particular tournament, competition, or league, before the event begins. Alternatively, In-Play or Live betting, which is has become increasingly popular among punters, allows for wagers to be placed on events that are currently in progress. In-Play bets can be placed from the start of the event until the end and can provide an advantageous opportunity for punters who like to get more into the action. By keeping an eye on the event, savvy bettors can put themselves in a better position to receive a big pay-out.
Sports betting legislation
Most countries worldwide consider sports betting, whether it be online or offline, as a legal type of gambling. However, when choosing an online sportsbook, it is essential to be sure what you’re using is safe and legitimate. Reputable bookmakers are typically transparent and prominently display their license numbers, as well as the names of the governing authorities and commissions that oversee their operations.
It’s important to note that different regions have different regulatory practices when it comes to sports betting. Some regions are stricter than others, and this can impact the fairness of betting operators. Despite the illegality of online sports betting in certain countries, many bookmakers still welcome punters from those areas, arguing that they are not breaking any laws because they are based and licensed in regions where online betting is permitted.
Another consideration is the potential taxation of bettors’ winnings, even in countries where online sports betting is legal. For instance, some countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Sweden don’t impose taxes on sports betting winnings, whilst other countries like Germany do, but with varying tax percentages. Before placing any bets, it’s important to check whether taxes are imposed on betting winnings in your country of residence. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Betting on sports can be an enjoyable and potentially lucrative activity. However, it is crucial to have a good understanding of the ins and out of sports betting beforehand in order to make profitable bets. Additionally, it is important to be familiar with the different odds formats used by various online bookmakers. Lastly, it is essential to practice responsible gambling by managing your winnings and not risking it all after a big win.
Betting Strategies and Tips for Novice Bettors
The following is a list of simple beginning strategies for betting that will help any novice bettor improve their game:
- Start with a Budget: Before placing any bets, set a budget that you can afford to lose. This helps novices manage their finances responsibly and avoid chasing losses.
- Understand the Basics: Learn the fundamentals of sports betting, including odds formats, types of bets, and how bookmakers set lines. A solid understanding of the basics is crucial for making informed decisions.
- Research Teams and Players: Knowledge is key. Stay informed about the teams, players, and any relevant statistics or trends. This information will help you make more accurate predictions and informed betting choices.
- Focus on One or Two Sports: Instead of spreading your attention across numerous sports, concentrate on learning the intricacies of one or two. This allows for a more in-depth understanding and better-informed betting decisions.
- Shop for the Best Odds: Different sportsbooks may offer slightly different odds for the same event. Comparing odds from multiple sources ensures that you get the best possible value for your bets.
Live Betting: Real-Time Action in Sports Wagering
Live betting features continuously updated odds that reflect the changing circumstances of a game. Odds are adjusted based on the score, time remaining, and other in-game factors. Live betting expands the range of available markets beyond traditional pre-match options. Users can bet on specific events within the game, such as the next goal scorer, the outcome of the next play, or even minute-by-minute developments. Live betting allows for quick decision-making. Bettors can assess the flow of the game, team performance, and other factors in real-time, making it a dynamic and engaging experience.
Sportsbooks often provide real-time statistics and data during live events. This information, such as possession percentages, shots on goal, or player-specific stats, aids bettors in making informed decisions. Many live betting platforms offer cash-out features, allowing users to settle their bets before the conclusion of the event. This provides an opportunity to secure profits or minimise losses based on the current game situation. Some sportsbooks offer live streaming services, allowing users to watch the event directly on the platform.
Payment Methods and Security
Payment methods and security are critical aspects of online sports betting platforms.
Payment Methods
Common and widely accepted, credit and debit cards are convenient for deposits and withdrawals. However, users should be aware of potential transaction fees and the need to provide sensitive card details. Popular e-wallets like PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller provide a secure and quick way to transact on betting platforms. They offer an additional layer of privacy, as users don’t need to share their financial details directly with the sportsbook. Direct bank transfers are a traditional method for depositing and withdrawing funds. While they may take longer compared to other methods, they are generally considered secure. Prepaid cards, such as Paysafecard, allow users to load a specific amount of money onto a card for online transactions. This can be a way to control spending, but users should check for any associated fees.
Security Measures
Utilising secure and reputable payment gateways is crucial. These gateways should comply with industry standards and use encryption to protect financial transactions. Adherence to regulatory standards and compliance with data protection laws ensure that sports betting platforms handle user data responsibly and securely. Implementing advanced fraud detection systems helps identify and prevent fraudulent activities, protecting both users and the sportsbook. Conducting regular security audits and assessments helps identify vulnerabilities and ensures that the sports betting platform stays ahead of emerging threats. Sportsbooks should only collect the necessary data for transactions and account management, and they should have policies in place to responsibly handle and store user information.
Responsible Gambling Practices in Sports Betting
Responsible gambling practices are essential to ensure the well-being of individuals engaging in sports betting. Here are key principles and measures that contribute to responsible gambling: Sports betting platforms should offer self-exclusion programs, allowing users to voluntarily restrict their access to the platform for a specified period. This can be an effective tool for individuals who recognise the need to take a break from gambling. Setting deposit limits helps users control their spending. Sportsbooks should encourage users to establish daily, weekly, or monthly limits on the amount of money they can deposit into their betting accounts. Implementing time limits on gambling sessions helps prevent excessive and prolonged betting. Users can set limits on the duration of their betting activities to promote responsible behaviour. Sports betting platforms can incorporate reality checks, providing periodic notifications to users about the time spent or money wagered during a session. This helps users stay aware of their betting activity.
Mobile Betting Experience
The mobile betting experience refers to the overall user experience when accessing and using sports betting platforms on mobile devices. A well-designed and intuitive interface is essential for easy navigation. Mobile betting apps or websites should have clear menus, easily accessible markets, and a layout that optimises the use of smaller screens. Sports betting platforms need to be responsive across various devices and screen sizes. Whether on smartphones or tablets, the interface should adapt seamlessly, ensuring a consistent and enjoyable user experience. Fast loading times and responsive performance are critical for an efficient mobile betting experience. Slow-loading pages or delays in placing bets can lead to frustration for users. Mobile platforms should support live betting features, allowing users to place bets in real-time. Integration with live streaming services enhances the experience, enabling users to watch events and make informed in-play decisions.
Psychology of Betting
The psychology of betting is a complex interplay of cognitive biases, emotional responses, and decision-making processes. Bettors often overestimate their ability to predict outcomes, leading to overconfidence. This bias can result in riskier bets and larger wager amounts than justified by the actual level of knowledge or skill. Individuals may seek out information that confirms their existing beliefs or supports their chosen bets. This bias can hinder objective analysis and prevent bettors from considering all relevant information. The belief that past outcomes influence future results, even in random events, is known as the gambler’s fallacy. For example, assuming a team is “due” for a win after a series of losses can lead to irrational betting decisions. Anchoring involves relying too heavily on the first piece of information encountered when making decisions.
Emerging Technologies Impacting Sports Betting
Blockchain is transforming aspects of sports betting by providing transparent and secure transactions. Smart contracts can automate payment processes, enhance trust between parties, and reduce the risk of fraud in betting transactions. AI and data analytics are revolutionising the way sportsbooks analyse and set odds. Predictive modeling and machine learning algorithms process vast amounts of data, providing more accurate insights into team and player performance, resulting in more precise odds calculations.
VR and AR technologies are enhancing the user experience in sports betting by offering immersive and interactive platforms. Virtual sports betting and augmented reality applications provide a more engaging way for users to interact with events and make bets. The widespread use of mobile devices has significantly impacted sports betting, allowing users to place bets from anywhere at any time. Mobile betting apps provide convenience and accessibility, transforming the way people engage with sports wagering. Biometric authentication is enhancing the security of online sports betting platforms.
Social and Ethical Considerations in Sports Wagering
Socially, sports wagering raises concerns about problem gambling and addiction. The accessibility and convenience of online betting platforms can contribute to compulsive gambling behaviour, negatively impacting individuals and their families. The prevalence of sports betting in popular culture and advertising may expose youth and vulnerable populations to gambling at an early age. This raises ethical questions about the responsibility of sportsbooks and advertisers in protecting these groups. Betting can potentially compromise the integrity of sports if not regulated and monitored effectively.
The risk of match-fixing or insider information leaks poses ethical dilemmas and undermines the fairness and authenticity of sporting events. The pursuit of profits in sports wagering can lead to financial exploitation, especially when vulnerable individuals invest more than they can afford to lose. Ethical considerations arise in how sportsbooks handle customer information and encourage responsible gambling.
FAQs
What are the key factors when choosing a sports betting site in New Zealand?
When choosing a sports betting site in New Zealand, key factors to consider include the site’s reputation for fairness and security, the range of sports and markets offered, competitive odds, user-friendly interface, and the availability of convenient payment options tailored to New Zealand customers.
How do odds influence betting decisions in sports wagering?
Odds play a crucial role in sports wagering as they represent the implied probability of an event occurring. Understanding odds helps bettors assess potential returns, manage risk, and make informed decisions, with different formats such as decimal, fractional, and money-line offering various ways to express probabilities and potential profits.
What are the common types of bets and how do they differ in sports betting?
Common types of bets in sports betting include straight bets (e.g., point spreads and money-lines), totals (over/under), parlays (combining multiple bets for higher payouts), prop bets (wagers on specific outcomes within a game), and futures (long-term bets on events yet to occur). The main differences lie in the complexity of predicting outcomes and the potential for higher rewards or increased risk associated with each bet type.