Casinos, Gambling and Sports Betting in New Zealand

The New Zealand TAB initiated the world's first Government-run totalisator betting service in 1951. The TAB (totalisation agency board) is run by the New Zealand Racing board and controls all of New Zealand's horse, greyhound and sports gambling. They have branches set up all over New Zealand as well as at all race meets. In 1996 it added fixed odds betting to its horse and greyhound gambling options, when the TAB began sports betting.

The three racing sports that New Zealanders bet on before fixed odds Sports betting was made legal were;

New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing (gallops)

Harness Racing New Zealand (trotting and pacing)

New Zealand Greyhound Racing (greyhounds)

Now over 26 sports are covered with sports from all over the world, including baseball, rugby, football, golf, tennis and cricket to shearing.

In 2003 when the New Zealand racing board was set up it conducted a survey the found out that racing;

Generates some 1.3% of New Zealand's gdp - around $1.5bn per year

Creates some 18,300 full time jobs, generating more than $679m in salaries and wages. That's the figure, measured in "full time equivalents"

Generates more than $130m in export sales of horses

Holds more than 780 race meetings a year, attended by more than 1.04m customers.

Since 1994 when the Christchurch Casino opened the government has given out 6 licences to companies for legalised Casinos to operate in New Zealand. At this stage the NZ government will not be issuing any more licenses. The Casinos are located in Auckland, Hamilton, Christchurch, Dunedin and two in Queenstown.

It is no surprise that all of the casinos are flourishing and they are returning some of there profit to the community through sponsorship and grants to charities.

The Casinos have also opened the way for pubs/bars and sports clubs around New Zealand to place "pokies" (electronic gambling machines) in their establishments. A large amount of the profit off these "pokies" is given back to the community through government grants and sponsorships given out by the sports club or pub/bar.

With the increased in gambling it is of no surprise to anyone that there has been an increased level in gambling related crime and illness. This is the price you have to pay to bring the many jobs and money to the communities that have gambling establishments near them.

New Zealand has embraced casino gambling with both hands and if you can control your emotion and that feeling to bet just a little bit more, it can be a fun way of having a bet and a nice meal.

Christchurch Car Hire - Events to Attend in Christchurch

Christchurch car hire is your ticket to exploration on your New Zealand holiday. Of course, you'll be happy to know that you don't even have to drive very far to find plenty of activities to keep you busy on your holiday. For example, you can head to the Christchurch city centre and find plenty of goings on no matter when you arrive.

Here are some of the best and most popular events to attend while you are in Christchurch:

- Christchurch Art Gallery shows. This gallery is always full of great art shows, including both permanent and temporary exhibits that change every one to three months depending on the exhibit. You can stop in anytime and check out some of the greatest art in the country.

- Summertimes: This includes many outdoor events held throughout the city and suburbs for any age group, many of which have free entry.

- NZ Poker Championships: Held at Christchurch Casino, this event is always worth a look. It is hosted every April, so check to see if it's in town when you are because it might be in another city from year to year.

- Friday Farmers' Market: This event is held every Friday by the Arts Centre, offering some of the best local vendors available in the region. You can enjoy bread, produce, pastries, fish, wines, and much more.

- Sumner Art and Craft Market: The market is held from the months of October to April, and on the first Saturday every month. This is a great event to see local artisans and vendors perfecting their craft and selling their goods, edibles and wares.

- Northwood Village Fair: This fair is an annual event in Christchurch that features arts, crafts, activities, music, games for kids, and much more. This is held in Northwood Park and raises money for charity organisations and local schools.

- Concerts, Shows, and More: The city has a full list of different musical concerts, theatre shows, and other cultural events that are ongoing throughout the year. Check the calendar before you arrive to see what you might be able to enjoy while you're in town.

There is plenty to do and see while you are in Christchurch, so make sure that you get out there and explore your options. Christchurch car hire will allow you to get from one event to the next with ease.