The Department of Internal Affairs says it has charged a gambling venue manager for allegedly failing to take all reasonable steps to identify a problem gambler.

The department says this is the first prosecution of its kind in New Zealand.

Section 309A of the Gambling Act 2003 requires staff at gambling venues to take all reasonable steps to identify actual or potential problem gamblers and to offer assistance, in line with harm minimisation policy.

Director of Gambling Chris Thornborough says the maximum penalty for the offence is $5,000 and a criminal conviction would likely prevent a person from being directly involved in a gambling operation.

"This prosecution signals our strong focus on protecting people from gambling harm and acknowledges the obligation gambling venues have to ensure the wellbeing of their patrons," he says.