SkyCity Secures Extension to Queenstown Casino License
Land-based operator SkyCity Entertainment Group has announced that it has secured an extension to its casino license in Queenstown, Australia.
The casino venue licence will run for a period of 15 years, coming into effect from December 7 this year. It permits SkyCity to continue running its casino property in the state.
SkyCity has operated the Queenstown casino since December 2000. It is one of six casino venues the group owns and runs across the country.
The New Zealand Gambling Commission granted the license extension to SkyCity.
SkyCity ‘Delighted’ With License Decision
SkyCity Chief Executive Officer Jason Walbridge said he was “delighted” with the decision to extend the license. He said the operator is committed to delivering a “fantastic” service to players in Queenstown.
“We’re delighted with this outcome,” Walbridge said. “We look forward to continuing to play our part in Queenstown’s fantastic range of entertainment for both locals and visitors.”
SkyCity Queenstown is home to a casino that features more than 80 gaming machines and eight table games. Other on-site amenities include the Wild Thyme Bar & Kitchen and the Peacock Lounge.
SkyCity does not release financial information solely for Queenstown, but combined with its Hamilton property the two casinos saw a 3.6% dip in total revenue to NZ$74.2 million during FY 2025. This was in part due, it said, to a challenging economic environment in New Zealand.
During the period, Queenstown benefitted from increased tourism, but table game revenue was hit by the group’s Premium customer reset. The operator recently introduced carded play at the casino, meaning customers must hold a ‘Show by SkyCity’ card to gamble. Underlying EBITDA for the two casinos was up 3.9% to NZ$33.7 million.
