Westpac NZ launches online gambling blocking service

New Zealand’s Westpac bank has rolled out an account blocking service to support customers struggling with online gambling.

The new service allows Westpac NZ account holders to block transactions with online gambling operators via a single request, with online gambling blocking applied to all of their credit and debit cards.  

According to Westpac, account holders in New Zealand spent NZ$136.8 million (approx. €76 million) with online gambling operators in the three-month period to 25 September 2023, with nearly half that amount spent with Lotto NZ and Tab NZ.

This compares with gambling spend of NZ$3.2 million in retail locations over the same time period.

“We know gambling can become an addiction for some people, at which point it can cause significant harm. By introducing the gambling block, we’re empowering our customers to stay in control of their finances,” said Louisa Brock, Westpac NZ manager, financial inclusion and vulnerability.   

“While the block only applies to online transactions, our data shows that the majority of gambling spending does take place online. We’ve updated our website to let customers know that the block’s available if they’re looking for support with a gambling problem.”

Once requested, the Westpac gambling block will remain in place for a minimum of three months.