# Former gambler wants all online ads banned

> Former gambler urges regulators to ban gambling ads to prevent relapse.
- Title: Former gambler wants all online ads banned · RNZ | Shortify
- Summary: Former gambler urges regulators to ban gambling ads to prevent relapse. A former problem gambler says online gambling ads trigger relapse and calls for a ban…
- Keywords: felix walton, problem gambling foundation, andree froude, tab, betcha, lotto, online gambling ads, gambling addiction, recovery process, new zealand, politics, news
- Source: RNZ — https://rnz.co.nz/news/health/1942128/former-gambler-says-regulators-need-sharper-teeth-wants-all-online-ads-banned
- Author: RNZ | Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa
- Published: 2026-10-15T17:25:17+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: felix walton, problem gambling foundation, andree froude, tab, betcha, lotto, online gambling ads, gambling addiction, recovery process, new zealand, politics, news
## Jack's gambling addiction
Jack fell into gambling after seeing an ad for free spins and lost everything.

> I saw an ad for some free spins, went through that and won a little bit. Spent that, so I signed up and put some more money in, and I won big.
## Addiction spirals
Jack's gambling addiction spiraled with his drug use, keeping him up for days.

> I knew it was a problem, but I kept doing it.
## Recovery challenges
Jack faces constant ads and emails trying to lure him back into gambling.

> I still see plenty of ads online. I always see a plug here and there on Instagram, I still get dozens of emails each day.
## Regulators' concerns
Problem Gambling Foundation director Andree Froude says current regulations haven't kept up with online gambling changes.

> Unfortunately our regulation hasn't kept up with the changes that have happened.
## Illegal ads problem
Illegal overseas gambling sites target students with guerrilla marketing tactics near universities.

> It's almost like guerrilla marketing, where obviously they're hoping people will Google it.
## Ban gambling ads
Problem Gambling Foundation wants all gambling ads banned to prevent relapse.

> It's really probably nigh on impossible because there are so many sources, so many gaps in the floorboards that let the mice in.
## Jack supports ban
Jack agrees gambling ads should be banned to prevent relapse during recovery.

> The adverts, the inducements, the excitement and allure is definitely going to drag people back in.
## TAB's stance
TAB says regulated gambling is safer than illegal sites with harm minimisation tools.

> Those who want to bet on racing and sport are safer doing so with the regulated local operator.
## New regulations coming
In 2027, up to 15 online casinos will be licensed to operate and advertise in New Zealand.

> They would be subject to strict rules, but Jack worried the new sites, ads and sponsorships would make it impossible for recovering gamblers to avoid their triggers.
## Key takeaway

A former problem gambler says online gambling ads trigger relapse and calls for a ban on all gambling advertisements.