Rules for Raffles and Lotteries

We are sometimes asked what the rules are governing raffles and lotteries. Many clubs and societies will run these from time to time and it can be difficult to establish precisely what the rules are governing these activities. Here are the main points we think you will find useful:

Raffles

When holding a raffle there are a number of things a club needs to be aware of.

Items that cannot be used as prizes are:

• A firearm, explosive (including ammunition), restricted weapon or airgun
• Liquor
• Tobacco products
• A taonga tuturu (an object more than 50 years old that relates to Māori culture, history or society, and was manufactured, modified, used, or brought into New Zealand by Māori)
• Vouchers or entitlements to commercial sexual services
• Vouchers or entitlements to any of the other property listed above.

Second-hand goods and non-residential land can be offered as prizes.

Further information about the rules for running a "gambling activity" can be found on the Department of Internal Affairs website