Christchurch Casinos Limited is facing civil prosecution from the New Zealand government for failing to comply with the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Act 2009. The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) claims the operator failed to implement and uphold a strong AML/CFT program over five years, spanning December 2018 to December 2023.
The case comes as the government strengthens oversight of consumer protection and regulation of New Zealand casinos to improve financial system integrity.
Allegations of Non-Compliance
The DIA’s investigation did not accuse Christchurch Casino of directly laundering money or financing terrorism. However, the agency claims the operator failed in key areas, including monitoring accounts adequately, maintaining accurate records, improving customer due diligence procedures, and terminating risky commercial partnerships upon request.
These lapses are considered significant AML/CFT Act breaches, creating vulnerabilities that criminals could exploit to launder money or fund illegal activities. Under the law, businesses like casinos must have strong policies and controls to detect, manage, and reduce these risks. Without effective measures, the DIA argues, casinos become attractive avenues for financial crime.
If the High Court upholds the charges, Christchurch Casino could face severe penalties, including substantial fines, reputational damage, and potential revocation of its operating license.
Wider Context of AML/CFT Enforcement
The case against Christchurch Casino is part of the DIA's broader push to enforce AML/CFT compliance across New Zealand’s gambling industry. It follows a similar case against SkyCity Entertainment Group, which was fined NZD $4.16 million (USD $2.61 million) for AML/CFT violations between February 2018 and March 2023. SkyCity admitted its failures and paid the fine as ordered by the High Court.
Christchurch Casinos Limited and its parent company, Skyline Enterprises, have not released an official statement. However, regulators, industry stakeholders, and observers are closely monitoring the case’s progress.
The DIA’s Role and Regulatory Stance
The Department of Internal Affairs oversees AML/CFT compliance for New Zealand’s reporting entities, including casinos. Serge Sablyak, Director of the DIA’s AML/CFT Group, emphasized that businesses must conduct comprehensive risk assessments to identify and address potential threats.
Effective AML/CFT programs require rigorous customer due diligence, regular transaction monitoring, accurate record-keeping, including transaction histories, and reporting of any suspicious activity to authorities. These measures are critical to preventing criminal misuse of financial systems and protecting businesses and customers.
The DIA acknowledges the complexity of global financial transactions but remains firm: compliance is non-negotiable. The regulator’s recent actions reflect its commitment to maintaining the integrity of New Zealand’s financial and gaming sectors.
Conclusion
The Christchurch Casino case highlights the increasing scrutiny of New Zealand’s gambling industry under AML/CFT laws. As the DIA takes a hard line on non-compliance, this legal action reminds all reporting entities of the importance of robust risk management and due diligence systems.
The outcome of this case could set a precedent for stronger regulatory enforcement and encourage greater transparency across the sector. For now, the industry awaits the High Court’s decision on Christchurch Casino’s future.
