The New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs has reported that a settlement has been reached in the civil proceedings against Christchurch Casinos Limited for alleged breaches of its obligations under the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act 2009.

As part of the settlement, Christchurch Casino has admitted all seven causes of action in DIA’s amended statement of claim and has agreed to join DIA in recommending that the High Court impose a penalty of $5.06m on Christchurch Casino.

Between May 2023 and September 2024, DIA conducted an investigation into Christchurch Casino’s AML/CFT compliance, and found that it had breached a number of its obligations under the Act.

DIA found that Christchurch Casino had failed to establish, implement and maintain a compliant AML/CFT compliance programme, adequately monitor accounts, conduct compliant enhanced customer due diligence, terminate existing business relationships when required and keep records as required by the Act. These failures spanned between December 2018 and December 2023.

“This agreement is a significant and positive outcome. It’s encouraging to achieve our intended result without the time and expense of court proceedings” said Serge Sablyak, Director of AML/CFT Group.

“While the regulatory breaches were serious, we acknowledge Christchurch Casino’s decision to admit to the breaches and take responsibility for what were substantial failings.”

“We’re proud that our work has strengthened the integrity of New Zealand’s financial system and has helped build public confidence in the prevention of money laundering and terrorism financing.”

DIA and Christchurch Casino have recommended to the High Court that the matter now proceed to a penalty hearing for the Court to determine the appropriate penalty to be imposed on Christchurch Casino.

Christchurch Casino is not alleged to have been directly involved in money laundering or the financing of terrorism.

Leading online gaming firm SportPesa announced a 15 million (116.207,00 US Dollar) title sponsorship package for the 2025 National Sevens Circuit (NSC) taking place across five towns from July to September.

The sponsorship, renewed for the third consecutive year, will see the gaming giant retain the title sponsorship with the circuit once again being named the SportPesa National Sevens Circuit.

Speaking during the launch held at the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) headquarters at the RFUEA Grounds, SportPesa Public Relations and Advertising Manager Willis Ojwang reiterated the firm’s commitment to supporting the local action on top of their existing sponsorship with the men’s national rugby 7s side.

“On behalf of SportPesa, our commitment to rugby goes without saying. Our CEO Ronald Karauri says no one does sports better than we do. For 3 years in a row, SportPesa has been not only part and parcel of supporting the national rugby team but also the local circuit and the impact has been unmatched,” he said.

During the launch, Ojwang also announced an exciting package that will see the sponsorship cater for top-notch livestreaming of the action in all six legs which will help viewers from around the world to follow the action and give exposure to players.

“Last year we had an existing structure but this year we are working on the livestream and broadcast area. For the first time, we will have a streamlined livestream experience just to expose the players and to cater to all the fans worldwide,” he announced.

KRU Chairperson Harriet Okatch expressed gratitude towards SportPesa for walking the journey with rugby and for coming on board as the sponsors for the circuit.

“Your support couldn’t have come at a better time. This circuit marks the beginning of our journey to qualify both our men’s and women’s teams for HSBC Tier 1 status next year. We are more than confident than ever that Kenya will rise again on the global stage,” she noted.

KRU Director of Rugby Paul Odera emphasized on the importance of the circuit which will be used as a pathway to the national teams.

“It has been exciting and interesting to prepare for this year’s circuit which began with a seminar with national team coaches and players on expectations for them on pathways to the national team.”