June 4th, 2008 - TAB’s new plan Virtual Horse Racing
The New Zealand Racing Board wants to introduce ‘virtual’ horse racing, where punters can bet on a computer-generated field.
It has asked the Department of Internal Affairs for permission to show the virtual races at TAB outlets.
But that would need a law change.
These computer-generated horse races are run at TAB outlets in some parts of Australia and the UK, and now the New Zealand racing board wants them introduced here too.
“What industry are they in?” asks Graeme Ramsay of the Problem Gaming Foundation. “Because if they’re moving down this path when their own customers aren’t asking them to, does that mean that they see themselves as part of the gambling industry and competing with casinos?”
The Racing Board has asked the Department of Internal Affairs to amend the rules to allow it to offer betting on virtual races.
Internal Affairs released a statement to 3 News saying this form of gambling would be subject to “limits on bets and maximum prizes, along with harm prevention and minimisation provisions”.
These requirements are such that it is unlikely any application to run virtual racing would be successful as the Gambling Act currently stands. So an amendment to the act would need to be put forward, and the Racing Board is keeping quiet about whether it plans to lobby for one.
The Racing Board refused a request by 3 News for an interview. CEO Graham Hanson says Internal Affairs’ response is still in his in tray, and he has not yet decided if he will take it further. He says it is one of many things he has under consideration.
