Polymarket in New Zealand
Not available: the DIA treats it as illegal gambling, and Polymarket is close-only.
| Polymarket status | Close-only |
|---|---|
| National position | Banned or blocked by the regulator |
| Regulator | Department of Internal Affairs (DIA), Gambling regulation |
| Last reviewed | 23 October 2026 |
The legal situation in New Zealand
In February 2026 the DIA said prediction markets are gambling under New Zealand law and that operators may not offer them to New Zealand residents. New Zealand does not run an ISP blocking scheme for gambling sites. Polymarket now lists New Zealand as close-only in its own geoblock.
Key facts
- 16 Feb 2026: DIA Gambling Director Vicki Scott said operators are 'prohibited from offering their gambling products to people in this country'.
- New Zealand has no ISP-level gambling site blocking regime.
- Polymarket's geoblock list now shows New Zealand as close-only.
What are your options in New Zealand?
If Polymarket or local law restricts this country, the honest answer is: don't try to get around it. VPNs and third-party wallets break Polymarket's terms, can get funds frozen and may be illegal locally. Look for prediction markets or exchanges licensed by Department of Internal Affairs (DIA), Gambling regulation, and check back here: rules change.
Sources
General information, not legal advice. Check the regulator's own website before acting.
Frequently asked questions
Is Polymarket legal in New Zealand?
Not available: the DIA treats it as illegal gambling, and Polymarket is close-only.
Can I use a VPN for Polymarket in New Zealand?
No. Using a VPN to reach Polymarket from a restricted location breaks its terms of service and can lead to frozen accounts. It may also break local law.