Fundraising rules NZ: raffles, collections, charities

Raffles and prize draws

Raffles are gambling under the Gambling Act 2003. According to the Department of Internal Affairs, class 1 gambling, where turnover and total prizes are each $500 or less, does not need a licence, and the net proceeds must go to an authorised purpose. Larger raffles have more rules, and prizes over $5,000 generally need a licence. Check the DIA website before you run one.

Street collections

Councils control collecting money in public places. In Auckland, fundraising and collecting donations in council-controlled public places needs approval under the Public Trading, Events and Filming Bylaw 2022. Other councils have their own rules.

Do you need to be a registered charity?

No. You do not need to be a registered charity to fundraise. Registering with Charities Services has benefits, such as tax exemptions and eligibility to become an approved donee organisation, but it is not required for a personal or community fundraiser.

Be honest and use money as promised

Describe the cause accurately, use the money for what you said, and tell donors if plans change. Misleading appeals can breach the Fair Trading Act and may be a criminal offence.

Privacy

Only share personal or health information with permission. Donor details should be kept private and used only for the fundraiser.

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Common questions

Do I need a licence to run a raffle in NZ?

Not if turnover and total prizes are each $500 or less (class 1 gambling). Larger raffles have more rules, and prizes over $5,000 generally need a licence from the Department of Internal Affairs.

Fundraising rules in New Zealand