DigiPlus Withdraws From New Zealand Online Gaming Licence Auction
Philippine digital gaming operator DigiPlus Interactive Corp. has withdrawn from the final rounds of New Zealand’s online casino licensing auction, citing the outcome of further market analysis. The decision marks a notable setback in the company’s broader international expansion strategy, which includes ongoing initiatives in Brazil and South Africa.
DigiPlus, the Manila-listed company behind the BingoPlus and ArenaPlus platforms, had filed an Expression of Interest in New Zealand’s licensing process earlier this year. The company confirmed that it abstained from the final rounds of the auction after completing additional market analysis and an internal review.
According to the company, the withdrawal will not affect its existing operations or financial performance. DigiPlus has indicated that it remains focused on its domestic business and on international growth opportunities that better align with its strategic assessment of market conditions.
The New Zealand Licensing Framework
New Zealand is in the process of establishing a regulated online casino market under the Online Casino Gambling Act 2026, with implementing regulations that came into force in July 2026. The framework provides for a maximum of 15 online casino licences, allocated through a structured three-stage process:
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Expressions of Interest – initial screening of prospective operators
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Auction – candidates invited by the regulator participate in an auction for the right to apply; the auction was scheduled for 29 September 2026
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Full application – winning bidders must submit detailed business plans, harm-minimisation strategies, and meet technical and compliance requirements
Licences are issued for a three-year term, and winning an auction slot does not automatically guarantee final licensing approval. The regime is administered by the Department of Internal Affairs, which has stated its intent to ensure a safe and well-regulated market.
DigiPlus’s Global Ambitions
The withdrawal comes amid a series of challenges and developments in DigiPlus’s overseas expansion. The company, which pioneered live-streaming digital bingo in the Philippines with over 1,000 games on its flagship BingoPlus platform, has been pursuing growth beyond its home market.
Earlier initiatives include the launch of its GamePlus platform in Brazil, with plans to expand BingoPlus operations in that market, and the filing of licence applications in South Africa. The New Zealand retreat suggests the company is applying a more selective approach to which regulated markets justify the significant capital and compliance investment required for entry.
