New Zealand: spending on betting rises amid new lockdown

Spending on betting products such as the TAB and Lotto has jumped by 65 per cent in New Zealand under its new “Level 4” lockdown.

New Zealand.- The announcement of a strict lockdown in New Zealand has led to a rise in betting sales, especially for TAB and Lotto, as casinos remain closed. According to local media reports, spending is up 65 per cent. The country also saw a rise in liquor and retail sales.

Authorities in New Zealand have decided to extend the country’s Level 4 lockdown until August 27, and until August 31 in Auckland, the epicentre of the outbreak.

Under the “Level 4” lockdown, people can only leave their houses to buy food or medical supplies or for socially distanced exercise.

SkyCity Entertainment Group’s Auckland venue was in the spotlight after a guest tested positive for Covid-19 last week. The customer visited on Saturday August 14. According to local media reports, there were 240 workers at SkyCity Auckland and thousands of patrons deemed close contacts were told to isolate. 

SkyCity also closed its venues in Hamilton and Queenstown until further notice.

During the last 24 hours, 63 new Covid-19 cases were detected in New Zealand.