The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) has fined Millie Elder-Holmes $5000 for promoting online gambling.
The fine comes after a crackdown at DIA on social media influencers who use their profile to promote overseas gambling sites.
DIA received 50 complaints about the activity of several influencers involved in promoting gambling in New Zealand, including Elder-Holmes, who is the adopted daughter of the late broadcaster Paul Holmes, the NZ Herald reported.
It is illegal for overseas gambling sites to advertise in New Zealand, however, companies can get around the law by using third parties to act for them, such as influencers.
In a statement, a spokesperson for DIA told the Herald that Elder-Holmes had been issued a warning about her activity but failed to stop.
“Ms Elder-Holmes was issued a warning from the department [Internal Affairs] in April 2025 to cease the promotion of online gambling through her on-line platform.
“In spite of the warning Ms Elder Holmes has continued to do so,” they said.
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It is illegal for overseas gambling sites to advertise in New Zealand, however, companies can get around the law by using third parties to act for them, such as influencers.
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