It seems that the government has finally decided to take action against pokies operators that do not comply with gaming laws. We recently published a report stating that pokies operators with suspended licenses were still operating across New Zealand. However, SunLive has revealed that a pokies trust will have several of its machines shut down due to its failure to comply with laws.

Grassroots Trust is a poker machine operator that provides pokies for a number of clubs in New Zealand. The company originally had its license suspended in December 2011 after it failed to distribute 37% of its profits (over $500 000) to the local community. The trust was allowed to continue operator for the next six months – but the Department of Internal Affairs has finally intervened.

21 clubs across New Zealand will have their pokies shut down throughout July and August. The clubs stand to lose a substantial amount of money, but the Department of Internal Affairs has yet to announce how exactly their finances are predicted to be affected. This case will certainly set precedent, and should serve as an example to other gaming clubs that have not paid their taxes.

About the Author

George Anderson
Author George, has over 25+ years’ experience in the Pokies and Casinos industry throughout Australia and New Zealand. Loves to research new Pokies games on the block and follows announcements from top industry providers about their upcoming releases. As soon as a new interesting pokie game appears on his radar, George is there to check it out and give you the scoop before anyone else and tell you about all casino sites where can play the latest game. Before this gig, George worked as Pokie game tester, making him an ideal candidate for this genre of work. He is also an animal lover and a proud owner of three dogs.