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The New Zealand High Court has finalized a penalty of NZ$4.16 million (US$2.61 million) against SkyCity Entertainment Group for failing to comply with anti-money laundering (AML) and countering financing of terrorism (CTF) regulations. SkyCity now has 15 working days to pay the fine in full. This fine stems from a settlement announced in June between SkyCity and New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs (DIA). The legal issues trace back to February 2022, when a customer at SkyCity Auckland lodged a complaint about the casino’s non-compliance with responsible gambling rules. The DIA's investigation revealed breaches of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act from August 2017 to February 2021. During its investigation, the DIA found concerns regarding extended play sessions at the casino. SkyCity admitted to these failings but also mentioned an enhancement program that started in late 2021 to improve its AML and CTF procedures. Beyond the financial penalty, SkyCity agreed to a temporary closure of its Auckland casino. From 9-13 September, the gaming floor and associated food and beverage outlets were shut down for five days. The finalization of this fine brings an official close to the DIA's civil case against SkyCity. SkyCity’s CEO, Jason Walbridge, emphasized the company’s commitment to improving its AML and CTF systems. “As a casino operator, we have a responsibility to combat money laundering and terrorism financing. This is a responsibility we take very seriously,” Walbridge said. He also reassured the public that SkyCity will continue to strengthen its AML and CTF measures to meet both legal requirements and community expectations. This isn’t the first time SkyCity has faced penalties for AML and CTF failures. In May, the company agreed to pay AU$67.0 million in civil penalties to Australia’s financial regulator, Austrac, related to its Adelaide casino.

SkyCity

SkyCity Faces $4.16M AML Penalty from New Zealand High Court