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Gambling rises to record levels

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Gambling rises to record levels

3News NZ

The reopening of the Christchurch casino and aggressive marketing resulted in New Zealanders gambling in record numbers in the year to June 2012, the Problem Gambling Foundation says.

Figures released by the Department of Internal Affairs showed more than $16 billion in bets were placed at the TAB, on pokies, casino games and lotteries.

The total amount lost by New Zealanders - the $16 billion spent less payouts - went up 3 per cent to $2.068 billion, The New Zealand Herald reported.

Internal Affairs said the increase was due to the reopening of the Christchurch casino after the February 2011 earthquake and growth across Sky City casinos.

Problem Gambling Foundation chief executive Graeme Ramsey said people tended to gamble more in tough economic times but said Sky City marketing had a part to play in that rise.

"They're clearly looking to increase their revenue."

Internal Affairs Minister Chris Tremain agreed people gambled more when times were tough, but said gambling losses had fallen since the previous record of $2.04 billion was set in 2004 once inflation was taken into account.

NZN

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Comments

23/01/2013 10:27:07 a.m.

Martin Cheer wrote:

So New Zealanders won $14B gambling last year. No wonder its popular. Perhaps that's the story.

23/01/2013 8:38:55 a.m.

Mike wrote:

$16 billion - so an average approaching $4000 per man/woman/child in NZ. Given the kids not allowed to gamble we need to divided it by the adult population so the figures much higher. Take those aged over 15 and your about $4500 per person.

This when the so-called poverty cant afford food appartently, but can afford the necessities of life like gambling! It would be interesting to see the % of income spent on gambling for different demographics, eg those earning over $100000, $50000, min wage 40 hour week $28000, collecting benefits. It wouldn't be flattering so it wont be done.

22/01/2013 1:42:29 p.m.

Dan wrote:

The increased gambling spend is undoubtedly good for the economy and I am surprised that the amount lost is so low. It could be slightly lower but it's not too bad.

22/01/2013 7:43:55 a.m.

michael wrote:

this sin is caused by the love of money . the love of money is the root of all evil.